k 




General Taylor, from a Drawing by the celebrated French artist 
Auguste Chatillon, of New Orleans. ' 



THE 

SCOUTING EXPEDITIONS 

OF 

McCULLOCH'S TEXAS RANGERS; 

OR, THE 

SUK^IER AND FALL CAMPAIGN OF THE ARMY OF THE 
UNITED STATES IN MEXICO-1846; 

INCLUDIXG 

0kinmsl)C3 witl) tl)e illeirican0, 

AND AX ACCURATE DETAIL OF THE 

STOEMING OF MONTEREY; 

ALSO, THE 

DARING SCOUTS AT BUENA VISTA; 

TOGETHER WITH 

AXECDOTES, INCIDENTS, DESCRIPTIONS OF COUNTRY, AND SKETCHES OF THE LIVES 
OF THE CELEBRATED PARTISAN CHIEFS, 

HAYS, McCULLOCH, AND WALKER. 



BV 

SAMUEL C. REID, JR. 

I.ATB OF THE TEXAS HANGERS AND MEMBER OF THE BAR OF tOVISrASA. 



PHILADELPHL\ : 

BER 

1847. 



Entered according to act of Congress, in the year 1S47, bt G.B.ZIEBER& Co., 
nr THE Clerk's Office of the District Court of the Eastern District op 
Pennstlvattia. 



STEREOTTFED by L. JOHNSON AN» CO. 

PHILADELPHIA. 

PRINTED BY KING AND BAIRD. 



t 



MAJOK-GENERAL Z. TAYLOR, 

COMMANDING THE AHMT OF THE UNITED STATES IN MEXICO. 

Dear General — 

Permit a soldier, who has had the honour of serving under 

I your command throughout some of the most stirring scenes of the war 
with Mexico, to dedicate to you the following pages — heing simply the 
journal of an expedition remarkable for many events worthy of being 

j preserved for the future. 

I The tribute is oifered, not only as a token of the high regard and 

esteem in which you were held by the men and officers under your 

command, whose friend and leader you were ; and of the high sense 

I universally entertained for your military talents, for which you are so 
J 

justly distinguished ; but also for the kind courtesies received at your 

hands while in the service of our common country. 

With great respect, 

I have the honour to be 

Your ob't servant, 

SAM'L C. REID, Jr. 

Nbw Orleans, Feb. 22, 1847. 



I 



PREFACE. 



The author of the following pages, participating in the 
enthusiastic feeling that prevailed on the reception of the news 
from Mexico of the battles of " Palo Alto" and " Resaca 
de la Palma," was induced to join the volunteers called into 
service, and left New Orleans as adjutant of one of the regi- 
ments of Louisiana volunteers. 

Soon after his arrival at Brazos St. Jago, becoming dissatis- 
fied with his position, and feeling confident that his regiment 
would be kept in the rear to garrison the different posts, he 
resigned his rank, and proceeded to Matamoras, where he 
joined the company of Texas Rangers, commanded by Capt. 
Benjamin McCulloch, which was detached from Col. Hays's 
regiment, and kept for scouting service by General Taylor. 

Long habituated to writing a journal, the author kept up 
his notes w^hile in Mexico, which he has been induced to give 
to the public, at the solicitation of his friends, and has thought 
that their presentation would prove most acceptable in their 
original form. It is, then, but a simple journal of events, 
that he offers to the public as they occurred, from the em- 
barkation of his regiment, including the storming of Monterey, 
up to the time of his return to New Orleans, with an account 
of the celebrated scouts of McCulloch at Buena Vista. 

We have endeavoured to give a fair and faithful account of 



b PREFACE. 

the incidents herein related, and to do justice to those who 
participated in them ; if, however, some statements may seem 
to have been given with inaccuracy, it must be recollected 
that men do not see, think, speak, or act alike, and there- 
fore diversity not only of opinion will exist, but even dif- 
ferent constructions will be given ; nay, some events may be 
unknown, while others are overlooked ; to those, then, who 
may seem to have been neglected, we tender this as our 
apology. 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER I. PAGB 

Departure for the Seat of War — Incidents of the passage — Arrival at the Brazos 
St. Jago — Description of the Island, &c., and Point Isabel — Anecdotes — The 
false Alarm 11 



CHAPTER ir. 

Camp at Brazos St. Jago — Scenes and Incidents — Capture of a Vessel with Contra- 
band Goods — The Trial and Punishment of the Oflfenders — The Regiment moves 
to Burita — Arrival at the Rio Grande — Occurrences of the Marcli — Wreck of 
the Steamer Frontier — Description of Burita 17 



CHAPTER HI. 

Camp of the 5th I^ouisiana Regiment — Departure for Matamoras — Incidents of the 
Road — Description of Matamoras, &c. — Capt. iVIcCulloch — Camp of the Regu- 
lars — Scenes and Anecdotes — The Camp of the Rangers — Tlie Fourth of 
July — Incidents — The old French Baker — His Garden — A Wedding — The Fan- 
dango 21 



CHAPTER IV. 

Departure for Reynoso on the Steamer "J. E. Roberts" — The Rio Grande and its 
Banks — Our Arrival and Departure — The Steamer aground — Lieut. McMullen's 
Story — Ride to Reynoso — Description of the Town — An Incident — We proceed 
to Comargo — The river San Juan — Clay Davis's Place — Arrival at Comargo — 
Description of its Ruins — The Rangers' Camp, &c. — A Sunday at Church — 
The Mexican Girls — Their Dress and Customs 28 



CHAPTER V. 

News of the War reaches Texas — Formation of Capt. McCulloch's Company of 
Ranger.s — March to Corpus Christi — The Ford of the I-aguna del Madre — Padre's 
Island — Uncle Tilley — The Carankawa Indians — Arrival at Point Isabel — March 
to Matamoras — Scout towards Linares — Incidents — Capture of the Mexican 
Mail — Arrival at Reynoso 36 



CHAPTER VI. 

Camp at Reynoso — Scenes and Incidents — An Express leaves for Matamoras — 
Lieut. McMulIen left in Command — Attempt to capture Canales at a Fandango — 
The Festival of St. Juan— The Chicken Race— Celebration of the Fourth of 
July — Pursuit of a Band of Robbers — The Arrival of the remainder of the 
Company at Reynoso— Our March to Comargo — Bill Dean's Story— Arrival at 
Comargo 52 

r 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER VII. PAGB 

The Indian Scout— The Comanches— News of their Depredations— Ordered to 
follow their Trail— The swimming of the Rio Grande— Attempt to rescue a 
Drowning Man— a Ranger playing 'Possum— The city of Rio Grande— Prickly 
Pears— The Indian Trail— The Night Alarm— Strange Concert— The Deserted 
Ranches- The Elephant in the Chaparral— Re-crossing of the River— Arrival at 
Mier — Bathing Scene— The Battle Ground— Return to Comargo 66 

1 

CHAPTER VIII. 

The Hospital of the Sick— Soldiers' Anecdotes— Orders for our March— Scout to 
China— The Sugar Rancho— The strange Guide— An extraordinary Vision— The 
March at Night— Rancho El Toro— The Arm-Chair Church— Preparations for a 
Fight— llie false Alarm— Our entrance into China— Retreat of Col. Segum and 
his Men — The vain Pursuit '5 



CHAPTER IX. 

Camp at China — The School-house— Our return March— A Family up a Tree— We 
proceed to Passa Sacate — Trinadad Alderet — Encampment in the Prairie — 
McCulloch's Story of his father's Compass — Camp on the San Juan — How to 
keep dry— Rancho Grande— The old Texian's true Story— Our return to Co- 
margo •-• 63 



CHAPTER X. 

Camp at Comargo — Scout to Punta Aguda— Lake Guardado— The Chase and the 
Death — Encampment near Mier — Captain Duncan in command — ''Jack Everitt" — 
The Fandango at Punta Aguda — The Search for Canales and Col. Rameres — 
The attempted Escape of a Mexican Officer — Corporal Bawk and the Mexican 
Ladies— The Dance— The midnight March 



CHAPTER XI. 

Scout to Serralvo — Description of the Serralvo Mountains, and the Town— Oar 
Reception — Encampment on the Rio Alamo — Our departure for Agua licjos — 
Encampment— Return— Description of the place— The Alcalde— Paso Isia— The 
crossing— The Story of "Strabismus Bill" — Arrival at Mier— Return to Co- 
margo — The Grand Review 



CHAPTER Xn. 

Camp at Comargo— Movement of the Army— Guerrero— A Mexican Funeral— San 
Fernando— Col. Jack Hays— His Character- The Battles of Pierdenales and the 
Enchanted Rock— Anecdote— Departure for Serralvo— Camp at Mier— The Lipan 
Chief, " Flacco" — Camp at Punta Aguda — Arrival at Serralvo — Reconnoissance to 
Carrisito— Scout to Papagayo— Incidents— Our Return to Serralvo 103 



CHAPTER XIII. 

Camp at Serralvo— Gen. Ampudia's Proclamation— Its Effect— The Mexican 
Feeling— The Alcalde's Fandango — Scenes and Incidents at Punta Aguda— The 
Third Brigade on the qui v/ie- Arrival of Gen. Taylor and First and Third 
Divisions— Orders for the March of the Army— Departure of the Advance — 
Arrival at Papagayo— Discovery of the Enemy— The expected Attack— Scout 
to Ramos— Skirmish with the Mexican Cavalry— The Chase and Retreat— Our 
Return to Camp— Arrival of Gen. Taylor and the First Division— Camp Scene- 
Movements of the Second Division, &c. 119 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER XIV. 



Description of Ramos— The Wounded Mexican— The Charity and Benevolence of 
the Texas Rangers— Arrival at Marin— Evacuation of the Town by the Mexican 
Troops — Description of the Country, and Marin — A Mexican Dinner — The Great 
Western — Scenes and Incidents — An Express from the Spanisli Consul — Camp at 
Marin — Capture of a Spy — Ampudia's Letter and Circular — Scout to Pescaria 
Chica— Incidents— Zacatycas—Agua Frio— Arrival at San Francisco— The whole 
Army Encamped — Arrival of tJen. Henderson with the Texas Rangers — Scenes 
and Preparations — March of the Army towards Monterey — Arrival before the 
Fortifications of the City — View of the Valley of Monterey— Demonstration by the 

Mexican Cavalry — The Opening of the Enemy's Batteries — The Reconnoissance 

Camp at Walnut Springs — The Night Expedition — Prisoners — Scene at the Guard 
Fires 132 



CHAPTER XV. 

Description of the Fortifications at Monterey — General Taylor's Military Talent — 
His Character— Gen. Worth— Enumeration of his Division— Anecdote of Gen. 
Taylor— The March and Detour of the Second Division— The Movement dis- 
covered by the Enemy — Diversion made by the First and Third Divisions 

Arrival of the Second Division at the Pescaria Grande Road— The Reconnois- 
sance — The Ambuscade — Heroic Act of Lieut. McMullen — Camp at the Jacales — 
The Attack on Pigs and Poultry— The Surprise and Attack by the Mexican 
Cavalry — Their Repulse with Loss — Incidents of the Night — Our dreary Situa- 
tion — The superiority of the Enemy's Forces and Defences 149 



CHAPTER XVI. 

Tlie First Day of the Battle— Discovery of the Enemy— The Cavalry Charge — 
Death of Lieut. Col. N4jera— The enemy's Defeat— Incidents of the Charge — 
Anecdote of a Ranger— An Irish Teamster— Military skill of Gen. Taylor— The 
First and Third Divisions — Gen. Worth gains the Saltillo road— Maj. Brown 
occupies the Mill at St. Catarina— The critical position of Gen. Worth— His Mili- 
tary Bearing— The Storming of Federation Hill and Fort Soldada— The Retreat of 
the Enemy— Lieut. Pitcher's Chalk Marks— Noble act of Lieut. Geo. Deas — A 
wild Scene— A touching Sight— Generalship of Worth— The Close of the Day — 
Suffering of the Troops— A Storm at Night — Mexican Hospitality— Description of 
a Mezican Woman — Preparations for the Morrow 156 



CHAPTER XVIL 

Operations of the 2lst of September on the Eastern side of Monterey — Advance of 
the First and Third Divisions from Camp— The Reconnoissance of Major Mans- 
field—Col. Garland moves towards the City with the 1st and Gd Infantry— The 
Attack— Desperate Conflict— The Repulse— Fall of Lear, Barbour, Field. Williams, 
and Irwin — Advance of Quitman's and Hamer's Brigades — The Baltimore Bat- 
talion — Death of Watson, R. H. Graham, Hoskins, and Woods — Lieut. Colonel 
McClung's Charge— The Taking of Fort Teneria— Col. Davis advances to charge 

Fort El Diablo — The Ohio Regiment enters the Streets— Gallantry of the Troops 

Gen. Butler wounded — Col. Garland advances to the T6te-de-Pont — His Position 
gallantly maintained— Fall of Morris and Hazlitt— Repulse of the Enemy's Cavalry 
by Bragg and Ridgely— Gen. Butler's Division returns to Camp— Gen. Twiggs' 
Division occupies the Captured Forts— Gen. Taylor— The Night— Scene of the 
Battle-field i 



CHAPTER XVIII. 

The Second Day— Description of Independence Hill— The Storming of the Height— 
The Fall of Gillespie and Thomas— The 7th Infantry— Capt. Miles' Diversion- 
Sortie by the Enemy from the Bishop's Palace— The 5th Infantry— Lieut Roland's 
Howitzer— Capt. Vinton's Ruse— The Charge of the Enemy from the Bishop's 



10 CONTENTS. 



Palace— Their Defeat— The Charge of our Troops— The Taking of the Palace- 
Duncan's Battery — Gen. Worth's Bulletins — The Close of the Day — Captain 
Walker— Incidents of his Life 181 



CHAPTER XIX. 

Gen. Taylor's Forces on the East Side — The Morning of the 22d — Gen. Henderson, 
and Woods' Rangers — Twiggs' Division, relieved by Butler's — Abandonment of 
Fort El Diablo by the Mexicans— The Third Day— The 5th Infantry— Major 
Brown's Command — Beconnoissance by Lieut. Meade and Capt. McCuUoch — 
Gen. Worth enters the City with his Division — Arrival of Major Munroe with the 
Mortar — The Second Division reaches the Plaza de Came — The Street Fight — 
The Bomb-Shells at Night — Gen. Taylor's Camp — Operations of the First and 
Third Divisions on the 23d — Gen. Quitman and Woods' Rangers enter the City — 
Bragg's Battery— A flag with a Letter from the Governor reaches Gen. Taylor- 
Position of the Army on the 23d 189 

CHAPTER XX. 

The Morning of the 24th — Continuation of the Battle — Lieut. Farrelly — Lieut Ewd. 
Deas— Flag from Ampudia, with Letter to Gen. Taylor— Suspension of Hostili- 
ties — Surrender of the City — Disappointment of the Texians — The Capitulation- 
Letter of Col. Davis — Terms of Ceremony of the Surrender — Evacuation of the 
City — Visit to Gen. Ampudia — His Address and Pronunciamento — Ampudia's 
Account of the Battle 200 



CHAPTER XXL 

The Morning of the 26th— Description of the City of Monterey— SeSor Gaja— 
The School— Sciior Serrano's House— Anecdote— The Cathedra! — The Valley of 
Monterey — Mr. Poinsett's Description of the Country from Monterey to Tampico — 
The Ladies of Monterey— ^noraCueller and her Daughter— A Romantic Story — 
The City at Night— Riley, the Deserter— Orders of Taylor and Worth— The Pros- 
pect of Peace — Texas Rangers Disbanded— Description of the Bishop's Palace — 
The Wounded Mexicans— View from the Palace— Mass at the Cathedral— Death 
of Father Rey— Preparations to leave for Comargo 216 

CHAPTER XXH. 

Departure for Comargo — Marin — Arrival at Serralvo — Incidents of Travel — 
Mexican Customs — A Camp Scene — Arrival at Punta Agnda — Alarming Ren- 
counter — Arrival at Mier — Senor Don Domingo and his Daughters — Scene at 
Mier — Arrival at Guardado — A Mexican Dinner — Arrival at Matamoras— Change 
in the Place — Arrival at the Brazos — Departure for New Orleans — We put into 
Galveston — Description of the City — Arrival at New Orleans — McCulloch's Return 
home — Incidents of the Road — The Stampede — Scout to Rancho Encarnacion — 
Charge on the Enemy's Picket — The Return — The Second Scout — Daring Feat — 
Discovery of Santa Anna's Army— McCulloch's Escape from the Camp of the 
Enemy — Arrival at Agua Nueva— The Battle of Buena Vista — The Conclusion- • 227 



LISTS OF THE KILLED AND WOUNDED, &c- 



McCULLOCH'S TEXAS RANGERS. 



CHAPTER I. 



Departure for the Seat of War — Incidents of the Passage — Arrival at the 
Brazos St. Jago — Description of the Island, &,c., and Point Isabel — Anec- 
dotes — The false Alarm. 

On the morning of the 4th of June, 1846, our regiment, the 
0th Louisiana Volunteers, was complete and fully equipped, having 
been mustered into the service of the United States, and were 
patiently waiting at the barracks, below the city of New Orleans, 
for transportation. As is always the case preparatory to the em- 
barkation of either sailors or soldiers, every thing was in the 
highest state of confusion and excitement. Orders had been 
issued for the departure of our regiment on the next morning at 
dayhght, and the steamer James L. Day was ready at the land- 
ing to receive us. Notwithstanding the inclemency of the wea- 
ther, the barracks had been thronged with the friends and rela- 
tives of the officers and soldiers, and amid the final adieus and sad 
farewells, there was many a strict injunction and ardent promise 
made and given among tlie parting friends. It was our last night 
ashore, and every one seemed determined to make the most of it. 
There were any quantity of malcontents in the guard-house — and 
many were the ingenious plots, plans, and excuses made up among 
the men, for the purpose of getting leave to go up town ; and in 
case of failure many of them took French leave, by scaling the 
walls of the barracks. The night was extremely propitious for 
those who chose this mode of procedure, for a very heavy rain 
had set in during the early part of the evening, and continued to 
fall in torrents throughout the night. 

At daylight on the 5th, we commenced to embark the troops, 
and on examining the Tnorning report, we found a goodly number 
marked absent without leave ; an officer was despatched to town 
after the delinquents, who succeeded in getting all on board, with 
a few exceptions. At 11, a. m., we got underweigh, the steamer 
taking a turn up the river, and rounding most beautifully, with 
colours flying, and the band playing a lively air; we fired a salute 

11 



12 SUNRISE ON THE OCEAN. 

from a long brass piece, which had been put on board for the pro- 
tection of the vessel, and the sun coming out in all its wonted 
splendour as we passed the barracks, we returned the hearty- 
cheer which had saluted us from our friends on shore. Pursuing 
our course as we swiftly glided over the turbid waters of the Mis- 
sissippi, which was soon to lead us to the blue waves of Mexico, 
we saw, as it were, our homes receding far in the distance from 
us, and to many it was a last and eternal farewell. At 7, p. m., 
we crossed the bar, and discharged our pilot at the Balize. As 
the sun sank beneath the blue waves, the men, too, seemed to 
settle doAvn in a quiet contentment, and if any regretted his pa- 
triotic enthusiasm, which had caused him to enlist, it was now too 
late, for the land we had left was then but as a dim cloud in the 
distance. It was a most lovely night. The sea was as smooth as 
a mirror, and the moon never looked more sweet and fascinating 
with her silvery beams dancing on the rippling waters, caused by 
the motion of our boat, which was a most delightful one, and sat 
on the waves as graceful as a swan. At midnight we retired, 
many of the officers preferring a pallet spread on deck, to a state- 
room in the cabin. 

We had often thought what must have been the glorious splen- 
dours of the first breaking in of light upon the world, but never 
did we fully realize the conception, until the morning of the (ith. 
The breaking of day at sea is certainly one of nature's grandest 
spectacles. It was just at gray dawn, when the last lingering 
stars of heaven were fading from sight, caused by the gradual 
risino^ of the sun, though still far beloAV the horizon, that the edge 
of the blue eastern sky became beautifully tinged with a most 
delicate roseate hue, gradually spreading and deepening into ver- 
milion ; the light fleecy clouds assumed a softer and a richer glow,, 
melting b}'- degrees as the sun approached nearer the surface, into 
a pale golden tinge, which extended itself along the encircling 
edge of the sky, now mellowing into a brighter golden light, as the 
day-god rose in all his gorgeous briUiancy, casting a veil over the 
soft features of the queen of night, which still rode high in mid- 
heaven. 

At 8, A. M., the death of one of the men was reported, and pre- 
parations were made for a burial at sea. The poor fellow was 
sewed up in his blanket, which served as his winding sheet ; and 
beinor ballasted at the feet with round shot for the purpose of sink- 
ino; him, he was placed on a plank which was laid half-way across 
tlie rail of the ship, and as his companions stood around, prayers 
were read, and the body launched into the deep. This cast a 
gloom over the men, who had become duly sobered, and began to 
understand their duties and positions. In the afternoon we had 



BRAZOS ST. JAGO. 13 

fresh breezes with hght squalls of rain. At night the officers 
amused themselves with reading and playing cards. 

Sunday, the 7th, was a dehghtful day, though very hot, as the 
thermometer was near 90°. We had a fine bath-house on board, 
and the sea-bathing, in the shape of shower-baths, was charming. 
Our captain caught several bonitas and dolphins, which were a 
o-reat curiosity to those who had never seen these finny tribes of 
the deep before. As is always the case at sea, or travdfling in 
any way, but more especially on shipboard, after the first excite- 
ment wears off a general quiet succeeds — each one seems wrapped 
in his own thoughts, and, consequently, a degree of monotony pre- 
vails. 

At daylight on the next day, we made the land, which was 
very low and fiat, and running down the coast until we came to 
the anchorage ground, off the Brazos, we lay-to for a pilot. The 
scene which here presented itself was both novel and exciting — 
innumerable vessels lay outside of the Brazos, whose shallow inlet 
did not permit them to go over the bar, and were being lightened 
of their cargoes by small steamers. To the left lay the island of 
Brazos St. Jago, or " the arms of St. James," with its httle hil- 
locks of sand, which are for ever shifting and changing by the 
tremendous gales of wind which sweep over the island, while to 
the right lay a long narrow bar of sand, called St. Padre's island, 
which takes its name from the fact that the padre, or priest of 
Matamoras, once owned a large rancho on this island, some thirty 
miles from Point Isabel, which contained some 30,000 head of, 
cattle, but which was destroyed by the Texians during their 
struggle for independence, and the cattle driven off to Corpus 
Christi. Between these two islands hes a very narrow passage, 
or inlet, leading into a beautiful bay which washes the high bluffs 
of Point Isabel. From the anchorage outside, is plainly visible 
the masts of the smaller craft within. 

The passage over the bar and through the inlet is rendered 
very dangerous from a tremendous surf and ground swell, which 
rolls in from the sea. A pilot soon came off to us, and in a little 
while we were in the midst of the breakers and rollers. Another 
vessel was coming out at the time, and while nearing each other, 
as each rose and fell with the sea, a collision seemed inevitable ; 
but we passed harmlessly by, and soon were inside of the bay, 
which was smooth as a lake. We landed on the shore of Brazos 
Island, and commenced disembarking the troops, and making pre- 
parations for our encampment. We pitched our tents about a 
mile from the landing towards the sea, near the sand-hills, beyond 
which there lies one of the most beautiful beaches we ever saw. 
The island is about six miles long. On the south-east part of the 



14 POINT ISABEL. 

island, there are a few miserable huts, inhabited by a Mexican 
family, "who are supported by a large flock of goats, and trading 
with the shipping, &c. There were once two tolerably good 
ponds of fresh water on the island, but they have become stag- 
nant and dry. The only means of obtaining water there, was by 
digging wells about three feet deep in the sand, but it was brack- 
ish and unwholesome ; the wells dug nearest the sea-shore, how- 
ever, p^ved the best. There was formerly a small village on 
this island, which was destroyed by a hurricane ; and the sea 
making a complete breach over it, the inhabitants perished with it. 
There are several legends told, hoAV that, many years ago, the 
island was the rendezvous of a gang of pirates, who, when pur- 
sued, invariably made their escape through this dangerous inlet, 
and that they frequently enticed vessels ashore, which had drifted 
from their course, by means of false lights. At the head of the 
island, or the north-west part of it, there is another arm of the 
sea, which separates it from the mainland, running around into 
the bay, called the Boca Chica, or small mouth. It is about fifty 
yards wide, and is generally fordable, though not deep enough 
for vessels of even light draught. This inlet, with that of the 
other at the foot of the island, forms " the arms of St. James," from 
which the island takes its name. 

After the morning parade, on the day following, we went, with 
several other officers of our regiment who had obtained leave, to 
visit Point Isabel, which is about three miles distant from the 
island. For this purpose Ave chartered a neat sail-boat, and, with 
a fine breeze, we soon made the Point, the approach to which, 
however, is very shoal. The bluff here is about fifteen or twenty 
feet high ; and the first thing Avhich strikes one is the command- 
ing position, overlooking the bay and harbour, and the inclined 
plane, receding towards the interior, giving you a full view of the 
country. The buildings on the Point are composed of large, 
board warehouses, for the use of the commissary and quartermas- 
ter's department, hospitals for the sick, the post-office, and quar- 
ters for the officers. In one of the warehouses, we saw the cap- 
tured property of the Mexicans, taken at the celebrated battles of 
the 8th and 9th of May, consisting of pack-saddles, scopets, lances, 
blankets, and camp utensils. There were no Mexican houses 
here, having been burnt by the Mexicans when Gen. Taylor first 
appeared with his forces near this place. 

Here we met many old friends. On calling on the brave and 
lamented Capt. Page, who recognised us at once, he motioned us 
to hand him a slate on the table, and, after some conversation, he 
wrote on it that " it was a dear-bought honour, and that he should 
be content if he ever reached home." Our friends pressing us 



TEXIAN WIT. 15 

to Stay with them, we made a « night of it ;" and as they had all 
served in the late battles, many were the incidents and anecdotes 
with which Ave were entertained. Lieut. H., of the dragoons, 
who was the soul of the squad, related the following : — A Texas 
Ranger, under Walker, who had gone home after the fight, was 
relating the exploits of his commander, and was describing the 
battles, &c., to a crowd of friends, when a young lad, who had 
been an attentive listener, his face brightening up with enthusiasm, 
at the glowing descriptions of the narrator, slapping his hand 
upon his thigh, cried out, " D — n me if I don't go to the wars." 
Attracted by this speech, the Texian turned round to see from 
whom it had emanated, and discovering the author of it to be a 
young delicate-looking lad, said to him, with a significant look — 
" Fou go to the wars ! — hum — you had better stay at home !" 
"Yes, me — why not tne?''^ cried the lad, indignantly drawing 
himself up to his full height. " Why, thar is a heap to do out 
thar, youngster," said the Texian, " which you mought not be 
able to do, that's all." "And what have you done ?" said the 
boy, making up to the Texian, who stood full six feet in stature. 
The crowd now gathered around, anxiously leaning forward to 
catch the reply of the Texian, for the boy's question was thought 
a poser. "What have /done?" said the Texian, repeating the 
question several times, and laying much stress upon the pronoun 
I, at the same time looking much confused for a reply. " What 
have / done ?— Why," said he, " I have done more than you will 
ever do, if you go." "And what is that?'''' said the still indig- 
nant lad. "Why, Vve got back safe!''^ said the Texian, with a 
loud laugh of triumph, in which the crowd joined. 

At this time Point Isabel was the scene of great activity. Sup- 
plies were daily being received, and wagon trains were daily de- 
parting with an escort of dragoons for Matamoras. What added to 
the singularity of the bustling scene, was the gangs of piones, or 
Mexican serfs, who were employed in loading teams, and bringing 
stores, &c.,from the landing to the warehouses. Several of these 
poor devils v^ere pointed out to us as having been engaged in the late 
battles ; and there still could be seen, from their manner, a lurking 
disposition for revenge. Our flag flaunted on the breeze from the 
highest eminence, while the cannon which was placed around Fort 
Polk, commanding the bay and the plain, looked very significant. 

On the afternoon of the 11th instant, on returning to camp, it 
was reported that a considerable force of the enemy's cavalry had 
been discovered on the main land near the Boca Chica. The 
report was communicated to Lieut. Doubleday, of the 1st artillery, 
who was in the command of a small detachment of United States 
soldiers on the island, and also to the colonel of the Kentucky 



16 A FALSE ALARM. 

Legion, which had lately arrived. Lieut. D. immediately des- 
patched some five or six of his men towards the Boca Chica as a 
picket-guard, for the purpose of preventing a surprise, and to 
reconnoitre. In the mean time, all was hustle, excitement, and 
commotion in camp ; cartridges Avere served out to the men, and 
orders issued for captains of companies to have their men ready 
at a moment's warning — the signal of w4iich was to be the heat- 
ing of the long roll of the drum. The boys were in a glorious 
humour, and every one rejoiced that the prospect of a fight was 
so near at hand. The guard was doubled, and a chain of senti- 
nels posted along the hillocks that lined the sea-shore. The 
Kentucky Legion also posted a strong picket-guard about two 
miles from camp, and every preparation was made to give the 
enemy a warm reception. All continued quiet until 9, p. M., 
when a regular came running into our camp with the news that 
the bugles of the enemy had been heard sounding the attack, and 
that they were already approaching. The regular, however, 
before being permitted to pass into our hnes, was first hailed by 
an Irish sentinel, who was posted on one of the hillocks, and 
ordered to stand and give the countersign. Upon telling his 
story, however, to the sentinel, Pat asked him how many the 
picket-guard consisted of; and being told about fifty — " Blood and 
murder !" cried Pat, "and why the divil didn't you stay and 
drive 'em back ?" " But," said the regular, " I was ordered to in- 
form your colonel of the fact." " In wid ye, then," cried Pat, 
"and see that ye's hurry out with the countersign after ye's.*' 
On the colonel being informed of the news, the long roll was beat, 
and the regiment formed in line of battle. The men were kept 
under arms for three or four hours, but no farther information of 
the enemy coming in, they were dismissed to their quarters. 

The false alarm proceeded from some of our men, who had 
been out hunting, and having crossed the Boca Chica, they saw 
a large drove of cattle in the distance, which they took to be 
Mexican cavalry ; and the bugle notes which the regulars heard, 
proceeded from an instrument played on board of one of the ves- 
sels in the harbour, the occasional notes of which had reached the 
picket-guard. After parade, next morning, the regiment was 
ordered to discharge their pieces by platoons, the report of which, 
at a distance, sounded like artillery. In the afternoon, an express 
arrived from Burita, to ascertain the cause of the firing, as it had 
produced much alarm there ; and the supposition prevailed that 
it must be the bombardment of Point Isabel ! We, in return, 
were seized with apprehensions, but the mystery was soon cleared 
up, it being ascertained that we were the cause of the mischief, 
which resulted in a hearty laugh. 



CAMP AT BRAZOS ST. JAGO. 17 



CHAPTER II. 

Camp at Brazos St. Jaffo — Scenes and Incidents — Capture of a Vessel with 
contraband Goods — The Trial and Punishment of the Offenders — The Regi- 
ment moves to Burita — Arrival at the Rio Grande — Occurrences of the 
March — Wreck of the Steamer Frontier — Description of Burita. 

The weather was now excessively hot, and the men were suf- 
fering very much from the heat and the brackish water ; several 
had already died with the dysentery, the prevailing disease of the 
chmate. The nights, however, were cool and delightful. The 
only real pleasure which existed on the island was the fine sea- 
bathing. On the sea-shore, back of the hills, is a most lovely 
beach, where the waves roll in, frequently six and eight feet high. 
It was most delightful to swim out a hundred yards or so, and 
then ride in on the foaming crest of the waves. The men bathed 
night and day, which was most conducive to their health. The 
shore is lined with small shells, which arc washed up by the sea, 
many of which we picked up for their beauty. The sea view 
from the beach by moonlight is charming. There were several 
vessels of war and merchantmen riding at anchor in the offing ; 
and as they rose and fell with the waves, they seemed like things 
of life. The billoAvs sparkling with phosphoric light, and beam- 
ing with the rays of the moon, formed a starry heaven below ; 
and as they rolled upon the shore, receding with a murmuring 
sound, made a sweet and plaintive music for the ear. The view 
of the encampment, from the hills, presented a very fine appear- 
ance, as the number of tents had been augmented by the arrival 
of the Alabama battalion, the long lines of which, with the otiicers' 
markees in the rear, had a very fine effect. 

To prevent intemperance, whisky and all spirituous liquors were 
declared contraband, and not permitted to be sold to the men. 
Notwithstanding, the soldiers frequently got drunk, and it could 
not be discovered whence the hquor came. Our energetic heu- 
tenant-colonel, however, determined to ferret it out. So, watching 
two of the men, one day, he followed them to the foot of the island, 
where, back of the hills, on the beach, lay a small lugger, v/hich 
contained two men, and several barrels of liquor, which they had 
been selling to the soldiers at one dollar a pint ! Lieut. Col. Peck, 
on making this discovery, returned back to camp, and at night pro- 
ceeded with a detachment of soldiers down to the beach, captured 
the vessel and contents, and made the two men prisoners, who sur- 
rendered without resistance, though their boat was found to be Avell 

2* 



18 PUNISHMENT OF SMUGGLERS. 

armed. The next day a drum-head court-martial was held, and 
they were condemned and sentenced to be rode on a rail, and then 
lo leave the island in one hour afterwards. The men were either 
Spaniards or Italians, and two more cut-throat looking dogs we 
never saw. In default of a rail, however, a plank was procured, 
and they were bound, and made to straddle the edge of it ; a file 
of soldiers escorted them on either side, while the music in the rear 
struck up the "rogue's march," and thus, to the evident dehght 
of the men, they were drummed out of camp, and escorted down 
to their vessel. They bore their punishment with the most sulky 
indifference. But as an Irishman was heard to exclaim after- 
wards — " If ye only knew how those thieves of the world was 
cursing on ye's now, it v/ould make ye say yer prayers." 

We had now been on the island some ten days, and the men 
were becoming very much dissatisfied, and anxious to march to 
some more agreeable position for health, as well as comfort. The 
island was truly a most dreary and disagreeable place, and equally 
as bad as the Great Sahara desert, for whenever it blew a gale of 
wind at night, we would find ourselves next morning completely 
covered with sand, Avhich would drift in clouds before the wind, 
and sweep into our tents. 

On the 19th, the long looked-for orders arrived, and we struck 
tents for Burita. As we had no baggage wagons, the quarter- 
master furnished transportation for our camp equipage by the 
steamer Frontier, which was to go round by the mouth of the Rio 
Grande. The troops took up the line of march along the shore 
until we reached the Boca Chica, four miles from camp, and which 
we crossed without difficulty. We then continued on, still keep- 
ing the shore, until we arrived at the mouth of the Rio Grande, 
which is five miles from the Boca Chica. The day was intensely 
hot, and the men frequently had to stop and rest, the burning sand 
blistering their feet, which made the march extremely fatiguing. 
Once at the mouth, however, we were repaid for all our sufferings. 
The fresh, cool water of the Rio Bravo was most grateful in 
quenching our thirst. Green fields m^et the eye, which were ren- 
dered more pleasing from our long detention on the desert island ; 
and the neat little rancho on the opposite side of the river, fur- 
nished us with a supply of fruit, milk, and tortillas, or flat corn 
cakes baked on stone. 

The steamer, which was deeply laden with military stores and 
our baggage, was now seen slowly coming round the coast, though 
evidently labouring very much, for there was a heavy sea on, it 
blowing very fresh at the time. On nearing the mouth of the 
river, she struck on the bar in the midst of the breakers. Two 
launches were soon despatched to her assistance, and the sick sol- 



DEATH OF A VOLUNTEER. 19 

diers taken off, with the camp women of the regiment. The gale 
increasing, the sea made a complete breach over her, and it was 
feared that she would soon become a wreck. The main body of 
the regiment, however, crossed the river, and moved on towards 
their place of destination, a detachment having been left with an 
officer, to secure the baggage, should the boat last till morning. 
The detachment took up their quarters for the night, on board the 
steamer " Sea," which was lying in the river, about a hundred 
yards from the mouth, and which was to convey them to Burita. 
As night set in, the rain fell in torrents. About 9, p. m., one of 
the sick volunteers, who had received the attention of our surgeon, 
expired. The scene which now presented itself in the cabin was 
one of strange novelty. The corpse had been laid out on one side 
of the cabin, and many were standing around to look at the fea- 
tures of the dead man, and as their gaze became satisfied, would 
walk moodily off, filled with the awe of death. A general gloom 
prevailed among the passengers, and many seemed wrapped in the 
thought how soon their time might come. To add to these melan- 
choly reflections, the rain was pattering down on the hurricane 
roof; and as the winds howled without, the moans of the surf 
joined in the lament, as if bewailing the loss of the spirit that had 
fled. A man soon after entered the cabin, and surveying the scene 
around, took a seat on the dining-table, and after commencing a 
conversation with a person who sat near, he gave a yawn, and 
throwing himself back until he rested on his elbow, said : " You 
will all d — n soon get used to such scenes, after you've been a little 
longer in the service. Why," said he, " after the battle of the 
9th, we had been hard at work burying the dead, when coming 
across a fellow that had on a better pair of boots than I had, we 
exchanged ; and, after drinking the contents of his canteen, I made 
a pillow of the corpse, and never slept sounder in my hfe." This, 
with other equally refined and feeling remarks, embellished with 
coarse oaths, grated harshly on the ear of the sensitive, in presence 
of the dead. 

The storm had now somewhat abated, and the signal lights of 
the " Frontier" could still plainly be seen, while many thought she 
was sending up rockets as a sign of distress, the captain and 
crew being still on board. It was left for morning to tell the tale 
of her wreck, for at daylight she went to pieces, and every thing 
that would float was washed ashore with the surf. She had drifted 
in during the night, and now lay within fifty yards of the beach. 
The men waded out to her, and succeeded in saving nearly every 
thing from the wreck, which was placed on board the steamer 
" Sea." In the mean time, preparations had been made to bury 
the deceased volunteer. There were no boards to make a coffin, 



20 DESCRIPTION OF BURITA. 

and so they wrapped his blanket around him, and carrying him on 
a bier, they marched to a high piece of ground, where his grave 
had been dug, and after firing a volley over him, a rude cross was 
placed in the earth to mark the spot. Many were heard to exclaim : 
*' It is a pity he had not fallen on the battle-field." And yet it is 
hard to say whether the poor fellow would have gained more glory, 
A soldier enhsts for the chances of death, though few who do so 
think of it at the time. And yet just as much honour, gratitude, 
and respect is due, whether he falls on the battle-field or not, so 
long as he dies in the service of his country. 

Having become tired of the monotony of camp life, and dissatis- 
fied with the commander of our regiment, we had previously 
resigned our position as adjutant, and determined to proceed to 
Matamoras, and join the scouting company of Captain McCuUoch's 
Texas Rangers, who, we were told, were kept constantly in active 
service. The steamer " Sea" was to leave for Burita, in the after- 
noon ; but having a fine horse with us, we preferred going up by 
land ; and so, at 10, a. m., on the morning of the 20th, in company 
with several other officers, we crossed the Rio Grande, and rode 
along some three or four miles, through a very low country, which 
the late rains had made both wet and muddy, the road in places 
being covered with water, until Ave came to a large lake on the 
left, with the river on our right. Here the country commenced 
rising, until the chaparral grew quite thick. At 12, m., we arrived 
at the little town of Burita, which is the first regular settlement 
after you leave the mouth. It is situated on a ridge of rising 
ground, on a bend of the Rio Grande. It is nothing more, in fact, 
than a miserable rancho, composed of some fifty huts, made of 
logs, mud , and cane. From its elevated position, you have a fine view 
of the surrounding country, and its situation is commanding. The 
place was full of volunteers, and several of the huts contained Mexi- 
can famihes of the poorest class. Every thing was in the greatest 
confusion, and in consequence of the camp equipage not having 
arrived, the men had to sleep on the ground, while the officers 
sought the deserted huts. The place was intrenched, and a 
breastwork thrown up for its defence. The 5th Louisiana regi- 
ment was encamped on the ridge, about two miles from this place, 
and many of the officers came in to see us. On entering one of 
the huts, we saw a Mexican woman employed cooking tortillas, 
on a heated flat stone, which she used as a griddle. A couple of 
naked children were playing in a corner of the hovel, the furni- 
ture of which consisted of a rude bench, a couple of stools, a ran- 
chero's saddle and bridle, and a few cooking utensils, — their beds 
consisting of raw hides and blankets. Here we procured a tole- 
rable cup of coflJee and some tortillas, of which, from the strong 



DEPARTURE FOR MATAMORAS. 21 

taste of tallow, a single mouthful proved sufficient. The woman 
looked much distressed at our rejection of her cookery, for fear, 
perhaps, that we might demand back a portion of the quarter we 
had given her ; and taking up the cake and biting it, and then 
dividing it between the two children, to re-assure us, said, " Si, si, 
sefior, este mucho bueno." 

The volunteers Avere delighted with their new position, and the 
change of scene. That night might have been heard many a song 
and wild laugh of glee, which told of the revelry which prevailed 
in camp. 



CHAPTER III. 

Camp of the 5th Louisiana Regiment — Departure for Matamoras — Incidents 
of the Road — Description of Matamoras, &c. — Capt. McCuUoch — Camp of 
the Regulars — Scenes and Anecdotes — The Camp of the Rangers — The 
Fourth of July — Incidents — The old French Baker — His Garden — A Wed- 
ding — The Fandango. 

The next day we visited the camp of the 5th regiment of Loui- 
siana Volunteers, and were kindly received by Col. Peyton and 
other officers. The situation of the encampment, being high on 
the ridge, was extremely pleasant ; and having plenty of good 
water, the troops were very healthy. We had intended to pro- 
ceed on alone to Matamoras, which AA^as eighteen miles distant, but 
being advised that rancheros infested the road, and that it was not 
safe, we determined to remain for a party who were going up the 
next day. Meeting many friends, we spent a delightful evening ; 
it was a fine moonlight night, and the scene around was wild and 
picturesque. 

Our party started after breakfast on the 22d ; and after riding 
about three leagues, we stopped at the house of a Mexican, who 
had cakes and fruit to sell, and partook of some refreshment. 
We found the house very neat and clean, and the females well- 
looking. There was a very pretty child standing by the door, 
who seemed to take great pleasure in our company ; approaching 
us familiarly, and looking up with his bright eyes, he said, 
" Americanos mucho bueno.^^ After proceeding a short distance, 
we fell in with a party of Mexicans, who said they were out 
hunting cattle. Five leagues distant, we came to another farm- 
house, and on dismounting, we found it only occupied by a wo- 
man and her child. The house contained wax images of the 
Saviour and the saints, with many crosses hung about the Avails, 
which she seemed to take pleasure in showing us. Here we ate 



22 DESCRIPTION OF MATAMORAS. 

some very fine melons, and, after recompensing the woman, pro- 
ceeded on our road, which was very muddy and disagreeable. 
A Mexican shortly after overtook us, who told us he was going 
to Matamoras. In passing a large cross put up at one side of the 
road, he replied to our inquiry that it was for a murder which had 
been committed there. The fellow appeared very shrewd and 
cunning, and spoke a little English ; so we determined to keep a 
look out for him, but he made some excuse to lag behind, and 
soon after gave us the slip. We were now about five miles from 
the towTi, and passed some very fine houses, with gardens laid off, 
and improvements indicating more civilization than we had yet 
seen. They were perfectly deserted, however, the proprietors 
having left on account of the war. We soon discovered the town 
in the distance, where we arrived at 3, p. m. The entrance to 
the town, by narrow, dirty streets, was not very prepossessing ; 
but then, any thing like a town was a great relief to us, and as 
we gained the main plaza, we became more reconciled. On the 
south-east side of the plaza stands the cathedral, an old ungainly 
building, still unfinished, as most of the churches are in Mexico 
— an excuse, it is said, for the priests to extort money for their 
completion, which seldom takes place. The houses which line 
the other sides of the square are generally two stories high 
and well built. In another square is a small chapel called La 
Capilla, and which, we were told, was the more " fashionable" 
church of the two. In all the churches are wax figures, repre- 
senting "the crucifixion" and the "Virgin Mary." The fur- 
niture of the churches is very poor. The houses of the poorer 
classes are one-story huts, built of stone and mud, and thatched 
with cane. The houses which are built of stone and brick 
have balconies in front, and the windows below are all barred 
with iron railings, as is the case with the houses in the West 
Indies and South America. The streets are very narrow, and 
partly paved. There were but few families of class in town, 
— and what principally struck us was the shops and stores being 
occupied by Mexicans, who were still carrying on their trades, as 
if nothing had happened to interrupt them. In fact they were 
doing a brisker business than ever. The Mexican barracks and 
hospital are large and well built; and the latter contained the 
wounded of the late battles. It was a most sorrowful sight to see 
the pale and haggard countenances of the wounded Mexicans, as 
they lay stretched out on the pallets which hned the sides of the 
rooms. A stalwart looking man was reclining on his elbow, with 
his head resting on his hand, having a fierce moustache, and who 
was pointed out to me by the Mexican medico, or surgeon, as 
having belonged to the " Guarda Costa" of the Tampico regiment, 




Mlii''/ 'f'li 



Captain McCuUoch, from a Daguerreotype by J. McGuire, 
New Orleans. 



CAPTAIN McCULLOCII. 23 

which, it may be remembered, fought so bravely, and was almost 
emirely cut up. The market-house is very poor, and the princi- 
pal houses which surround it are grog-shops and groceries. 
There were several public houses opened, with billiard rooms, 
and a great deal of gambling going on. The population of Mata- 
moras is about 4000. 

The next day, in company with some officers of the army, we 
called on the American consul, Mr. Schatzel, who has been resid- 
ing here for a great many years. He treated us very hospitably, 
and said he should always be glad to see us. We then visited 
the late quarters of Generals Arista and Ampudia, Avhich were 
nothing more than clever buildings, though finely fitted up inside, 
and now occupied by the departments of our army. Returning, 
we met Mr. Kendall, of the Picayune, who introduced us to 
Capt. Benjamin McCulloch, the celebrated partisan scout. Capt. 
McCulloch is a man of rather delicate frame, of about five feet ten 
inches in height, with light hair and complexion. His features 
are regular and pleasing, though, from long exposure on the fron- 
tier, they have a weather-beaten cast. His quick and bright blue 
eye, with a mouth of thin compressed lips, indicate the cool, cal- 
culating, as well as the brave and daring energy of the man. 
Being told that we were anxious to join his company, after run- 
ning his eye over us, he asked, "Have you a good horse, sir? 
for," said he, " I have refused a great many because their horses 
would not do for our service." Our horse was then inspected, 
and being pronounced "a good horse," we were immediately 
made a " Texas Ranger." Capt. McCulloch had just come hi 
from a scout towards Linares, and a detachment of his company 
had been left at Reynoso, under the command of Lieut. McMul- 
len ; and it was expected that we would move up to Reynoso in 
a few days. 

Benjamin McCulloch was born in Rutherford county, state of 
Tennessee, about the year 1814. His father, Alexander McCul- 
loch, was aid-de-camp to General Coffee, and fought under Gen. 
Jackson at the battles of Talladega, Tallahassee, and Horse-shoe, 
during the Creek war. While McCulloch was very yourig, his 
father emigrated to Alabama, and Benjamin was sent back to 
Tennessee to school, where he remained until he was about fourteen 
years cJJ. Shortly after, however, his father moved back to the 
western district of Tennessee, and settled in Dyer county. There, 
Ben was kept hunting until he was near twenty-one. At that 
time the bears were so bad that hogs could not be raised on their 
account, and the settlers principally depended upon bear-meat for 
subsistence. In those days, if a man's gun snapped, he lost his 
breakfast, for hunting bears in the cane requires much caution. 



24 CAPTAIN Mcculloch. 

McCulloch, however, generally killed as many as eighty bears 
in the course of a season, and never less than twenty during a 
winter. 

When about twenty-one, being fond of a life of adventure, he 
determined to go on an expedition to the Rocky Mountains, and 
left his home for St. Louis, to join a company of trappers ; but 
arriving too late he was disappointed, when he tried to get in with a 
party of Santa Fe traders ; in this he likewise failed, the complement 
of men having been made up. He then visited the lead mines 
m Wisconsin territory, and remained during the summer at Dodge- 
ville. 

In September, McCulloch returned home, and soon after his 
arrival, called on Colonel David Crockett, who was making up an 
expedition to go to Texas, to take part in the revolution that had 
then broken out in Mexico ; the whole south-west at that time was 
alive with feelings of sympathy for the Texians, and were daily 
flocking to their, standard. McCulloch agreed to accompany Colo- 
nel Crockett to Texas. Nacogdoches had been appointed the 
place of rendezvous from which the expedition was to start, and 
the Christmas of 1835 was named the day for the meeting — when, 
as " old Davy" said, they vjere to make their Christmas dinner 
off the hump of a buffalo I Unfortunately, however, McCulloch 
did not arrive until early in January, and finding the party was 
gone, he proceeded on by himself to the river Brazos, where he 
was taken very ill, and did not recover until after the fall of the 
Alamo. McCulIoch's disappointment was very great at not being 
able to join the gallant band of patriots at the time, but which 
afterwards proved very fortunate for him ; for Colonel Travis, 
after having sustained a siege for thirteen days with only one 
hundred and eighty Texians against Santa Anna's army, fell Avith 
his brave little band, having previously killed nine hundred of the 
enemy! 

After his recovery, he descended the Brazos river in a boat to 
Gross Plant, where the Texian army had assembled under General 
Houston, and was induced to join the artillery by their making 
him captain of a gun. This he gallantly served at the battle of 
San Jacinto, where Santa Anna was made prisoner, and his army 
of 1500 killed or captured. 

McCulloch settled in Gonzales county, and was afterwards em- 
ployed on the frontier of Texas, in surveying and locating lands, 
and serving in the wild border scouts against the Indians and 
Mexicans, which service he entered before the celebrated Hays. 
He also distinguished himself in a fight with the Indians, who 
burnt Linnville, called the battle of Plum Creek. He was like- 
wise at the taking of Mier, but not agreeing with the plans of the 



CAMP OF THE REGULARS. 25 

expedition afterwards, he returned home before the fight, and thus 
escaped from the cruel hardships and imprisonment of that com- 
mand, which had surrendered to the perfidious Ampudia. He 
was in almost all the expeditions of the time, and engaged in 
nearly all of the fights. The following pages give to the reader 
the continuation of the exploits of this daring partisan. 

The regulars were encamped along the banks of the river, 
which here makes a circling bend, about a quarter of a mile from 
the town ; while opposite, from Fort Brown upwards, was the 
encampment of the first brigade of the Louisiana Volunteers. 
The long lines of tents on each side of the river looked most 
beautiful ; it was a new scene to us, as we had never beheld such 
a large encampment. There are too very good ferries across the 
river — flat boats — one near Fort Brown, and the other above, op- 
posite Fort Paredes, on the Matamoras side. The evening parades 
of the companies of the different regiments made a fine display. 
The bands of the regiments generally played until tattoo, the music 
of which produced the most delightful sensations, being so near 
the water. The battle-fields of "Palo Aho" and " Resaca de la 
Palma" were still fresh, and the incidents green in the memory 
of the officers, and many were the interesting stories which were 
related to us, as having occurred at the time. On spending a 

night with the officers of the 5th regiment. Captain C told 

the following story of Captain, now Lieut. Col. Martin Scott : 
"As you well know," said he, " Scott never was without his fa- 
vourite dogs ; and as we were ordered to charge the battery in 
command of Gen. de la Vega, which the dragoons had been re- 
pulsed at, our adjutant having first volunteered the services of the 
regiment to do so, we rushed up to sustain them, and drove the 
enemy back by the point of the bayonet, from retaking the guns — 
here it was that the brave Lieut. Col. Mcintosh received three 
bayonet wounds — we were already in the rear of the enemy's 
guns, and sustained the gallant charge which Captain May had 
been ordered to make." " As we were charging the enemy," 

said Captain C , " I discovered the dogs behind me, who, 

hearing the wild shouts of Capt. Scott, thought that he was after 
game, when running ahead, they let out in full blast, and were 
close on to the heels of the Mexicans, when one of them was un- 
fortunately shot by the enemy." It was a delightful evening — the 
band of the 5th was playing some soul-stirring airs — and among 
the rest was, " Love not," — the stars never shone brighter in a 
heaven so sweetly blue, and save the occasional challenge of the 
sentinels, all was a quiet of sweet repose. 

The 1st of July was a beautiful clear day; we had had verj'- 
heavy rains for the last week — and to see a bright day once more 

3 



26 CAMP OF THE TEXAS RANGERS. 

was a great relief to us all. In the morning, we rode up to Fort 
Paredes, Avliich was noAv garrisoned by our troops, and crossed the 
river, then taking a winding path along the banks of the opposite 
shore, through cornfields, we arrived at last at the camp of the 
" Rangers." Here was a scene worthy of the pencil. Men in 
groups with long beards and moustaches, dressed in every variety 
of garment, with ohe exception, the slouched hat, the unmistaka- 
ble uniform of a Texas Ranger, and a belt of pistols around their 
waists, were occupied drying their blankets, cleaning and fixing 
their guns, and some employed cooking at different fires, while 
others were grooming their horses. A rougher looking set we 
never saw. They were without tents, and a miserable shed af- 
forded them the only shelter. Capt. McCulloch introduced us to 
his officers, and many of his men, who appeared an orderly and 
well-mannered people. But from their rough exterior it was hard 
to tell who or what they were. Notwithstanding their ferocious 
and outlaw look, there were among them doctors and laAvyers, 
and many a college graduate. While standing in the midst of a 
group, talking to the captain, a young fellow came into camp with 
a rifle on his shoulder, and a couple of ducks in his hand, and 
addressing the captain, said, " Ben, if you hav'nt had dinner, 
you'd better mess with me, for I know none of the rest have fresh 
grub to-day." After an invitation to stay to dinner, we were in- 
formed that the company would move up to Reynoso in a day or 
two, and were told to pi'epare to go with it. So, riding back to our 
quarters, we were filled with the thought of the wild exciting life 
we were soon about to lead. 

On the 4th of July, the day broke with all the glory and splen- 
dour worthy of the commemoration of A merican liberty. A national 
salute was fired at sunrise, noon, and sunset, from the different 
batteries, in honour of the day ; and as peal after peal of cannon 
burst upon the air, the reverberation seemed to echo across the 
plains of Mexico the shout of liberty. The soldiers of the late 
battles felt as it were a congeniality of feehng with our forefathers, 
only that they were freemen, but fighting to free the slaves and 
serfs of Mexico from the hands of tyrants and oppressors, as well 
as to avenge the insult to our national honour. The " stars and 
stripes ' waved on high from the surrounding battlements, and 
the plazas of Matamoras; and the Mexicans themselves joined in 
the gladness of freedom's anniversary. This was the first time 
of such an occurrence in a foreign, as well as an enemy's country. 
The volunteers gave a sumptuous dinner, in honour of the day. 
Night closed the day of festivity with a fandango, given by the 
Mexican ladies, and many an impression was made by the Ameri- 
can cavaliers upon the dark-eyed daughters of Mexico. 



THE FRENCH BAKER. 27 

The next day, our company left for Reynoso, but lying ill at 
the time, we were prevented from accompanying- it. In a few 
days after, our first-lieutenant, John McMullen, came down with 
despatches, and in the mean time the river having risen very 
high, from the recent heavy rains overflowing the banks, the 
roads were rendered impassable. Steamers now, however, were 
actively employed in transporting military and commissary stores 
to Comargo, which had lately been garrisoned by a part of the 
troops of the second division, and we would thus be enabled to go 
up by the river. Calling on the commanding general soon after our 
recovery, to ascertain the chances of transportation, he remarked, 
after some pleasant conversation, that he was perfectly deluged 
with letters, and that much of his time was occupied in making 
replies. "And, sir," said Gen. Taylor, smiling, as he handed us 
two letters, " to show you the diversity of subjects that I am called 
upon to respond to, you may look at these." One of the letters 
was from a boy, fourteen years of age, giving a sort of history of 
himself and family, and who desired to enhst in the service, and 
had written to the general to ask his advice on the subject ! The 
other was from an Irish woman, who wanted to know if her son 
Mike was killed, as she had not heard from him since the late 
battles. We feel sure that such letters would not have received 
attention at TVashington, but both of them were answered by the 
general, carrying out the maxim that nothing is beneath the atten- 
tion of a great man; and we left him, impressed with the great 
goodness of his heart. 

In Matamoras, there lives an old Frenchman, who keeps a 
bakery. Many years ago, he lived in New Orleans, and on en- 
tering into conversation with him, he told us he had married in 
Matamoras, and now had grandchildren. We saw one of his 
married daughters, who was well educated, and far superior to 
any Mexican woman we had yet met. She Avas rather pretty 
and quite engaging. They owned a very large garden opposite, 
filled with fruits and flowers which were most beautiful. The 
lady took us over, and showed us through the garden, and took 
evident pleasure in explaining to us the names of them in Spanish. 
She said, that next to her children she thought of her flower-gar- 
den ; that she had often heard of our fine gardens in the United 
States, and had longed to see them. She picked a large white 
double rose, which she said was called the " Queen of Spain," 
and presented it to us, remarking, as she looked up at the greeni 
oranges, " When our fruit gets ripe you must come to see us, for I 
hope by that time the war will be over." 

On Sunday, the 12th of July, we attended mass with some offi-. 
cers, and returning from the chapel, we fell jn with two surg;eons 



28 THE FANDANGO. 

of the Mexican army, who were well educated men, one of them 
speaking French tolerably well. Having invited them to dine 
with us, they made themselves very agreeable, and told us that 
Ampudia was fortifying- Monterey, and that we would no doubt 
have a decisive battle there. After dinner, they invited us to a 
private party, which they said was to take place that evening. 
Before which, however, we went to witness a marriage between a 
young Mexican officer, and a very pretty Mexican girl. The 
parties, it appears, had been engaged for two years, and the young 
officer, during the late battles, had his leg shot off; notwithstand- 
ing, the girl was true and constant, and determined to have him. 
The bride was dressed in white, with a gold necklace, which hung 
over her bosom, and a white veil covering half of her head 
and face. The groom was in full uniform, which looked very 
imposing. They were married by the priest, after which there 
was a shaking of hands, and mingling of congratulations. At 
night we went to the fandango. The girls were dressed very 
plain, but neat ; and some were quite good-looking. The most 
beautiful feature about them is their pretty feet. Their dresses 
were all made short-waisted, after the old fashion, without either 
corsets or stays to shape them. The Mexican gallants were 
dressed in white jackets, with pants of blue cotton or fine-dressed 
buckskin, embroidered with silk, open at the sides, and fined 
with buttons down the legs, underneath which they wore white 
loose drawers, which made quite a flashy contrast. Around their 
waists they wore a blue or red sash. Their hats were of a high 
crowned conical shape, of black glazed silk, around which they 
wore silver bands. The music consisted of a tambourine and a 
mandofin. Their quadrilles were much like ours, only that they 
danced them differently. The waltz was a sort of slow march, 
balancing at every two or three turns. We all danced with the 
girls, and had quite a pleasant time ; all agreeing that " Dona 
Catherina" was the belle of the niorht. 



CHAPTER IV. 

Departure for Reynoso on the Steamer " J. E. Roberts" — The Rio Grande and 
its Banks — Our Arrival and Departure — The Steamer aground — Lieut. Mc- 
MuUen's Story — Ride to Reynoso — Description of the Town — An Incident — 
We proceed to Coniargo — The river San Juan — Clay Davis's Place — Arri- 
val at Comargo — Description of its Ruins — The Rangers' Camp, &c. — A 
Sunday at Church — The Mexican Girls — Their Dress and Customs. 

We had long been waiting most anxiously for a boat to take us 
to Reynoso, in order to join our company, which we were fearful 
would go out on a scout before we could reach it. An opportunity 



VOYAGE ON THE RIO GRANDE. 29 

at last presented itself. The 1st infantry was already stationed at 
Reynoso, and the 7th and 8th had been despatched to Comargo by 
land. This latter point was to be made the grand depot for future 
operations, and large quantities of military stores were now being 
sent up. Orders had also been issued to the 5th regiment to move. 
And on the 13th of July, three companies of the 5th, under com- 
mand of Capt. Merrill, were embarked on the steamer " J. E. Ro- 
berts," and taking our horses on board, we bade adieu to Matamoras, 
and were soon booming up the Rio Grande. 

At night we stopped at Gen. P. F. Smith's camp of the volun- 
teers, which was then some fifteen miles from Matamoras, on the 
same side of the river. Several of the volunteer officers came on 
board to see us, and after landing a few stores, we kept on our way 
again. The Rio Grande is certainly one of the most crooked rivers 
in all North America. It partakes very much of the character of 
our own Mississippi, and is in fact very much like it, only not so 
wide or deep. The river being very high, a quantity of trees 
and drift-wood were running down with a sweeping current of about 
six knots per hour. The wood piles on the banks were quite 
numerous for the short time our boats had been running, as steamers 
never before ran so high up the river. The corn fields were one 
sheet of water, and the Mexicans were gathering the ears in canoes ! 
The huts on the banks were made of mud and cane, with no order 
or neatness about them. The farms generally were very fine, and 
we passed som^e most beautiful places for the opening of planta- 
tions. We made but httle headway at night, on account of the 
strong current frequently forcing the boat into the banks, in turn- 
ing the bends of the river, and so violent were the concussions, 
that we were often alarmed for our safety. 

On we sped, however, invading the enemy's country without 
opposition ; and it was the subject of remark, that we were thus 
permitted to proceed without resistance. For, had the enemy 
chosen, small parties might have lain in ambush, and injured and 
harassed our boats very much ; certain it is, that no enemy could 
take such a liberty with us in our country. At 10, a. m., on the 
morning of the 15th, we arrived at Reynoso, a distance of 170 
miles, which is situated on a high, rocky, steep point, and contains 
about 2,000 souls. Here Ave stopped to wood, and learning that 
our company had gone to Comargo, we remained on board. The 
road to the town was up a long and steep hill, and it was so 
extremely hot, that we could not be induced to venture its ascent. 
Having received our complement of wood, we pursued our course. 
At 2, p. M., when about fifteen miles from Reynoso, our boat got 
aground, on the right-hand side of the river, at a place called Sa- 
baritas. After many inefiectual efiorts to get off, the soldiers were 

3* 



30 

all put ashore to lighten the boat, but it did not seem to aid her. 
At 4, p. M., the "Brownsville" hove in sight, coming down, and 
by her assistance we were hauled off, and went over on the other 
side of the river, to he up for the night. The soldiers remained on 
the opposite shore, under charge of two officers, and had encamped 
till morning. Within fifty yards of this place, there is an ugly 
bar making out, with quite a fall in the river, which is here very 
shoal, and the current very rapid. 

The next morning we spent in ineflectual attempts to get over 
the bar. The weather was intensely hot, and there was but a slight 
chance of success. In the mean time, the soldiers were brought 
over in the yawl. We were sitting out on the boiler deck, after 

dinner, when Capt. C , who had heard that Lieut. McMuilen 

was at the battle of Mier, and had been made a prisoner, drew out 
of him the following story. As the battle is a matter of history, we 
will omit that part of his narrative, although it was most graphically 
described at the time, and proceed from where the Texians surren- 
dered. " We had fought from house to house," said young McMui- 
len, for he is hardly twenty-five, " making holes through the roofs, 
so that w^e could get on their tops, and had completely driven the 
Mexicans from the plaza, when a flag of truce was sent in from 
Ampudia, by an officer, to know if w^e would surrender, with 
instructions that, if we iiwidd not, to tell us that they would 
capitulate ! But this we did not know till afterwards. It was put 
to vote, and as our men were badly cut up, it was thought most 
prudent to do so, on conditions that we should be honourably treated 
as prisoners of war. On coming out into the streets, however, we 
saw the terrible havoc that our rifles had made. The tops of their 
houses were covered with the dead, and the gutters on the roofs 
streamed with their blood. Had we but held out, the day would 
have been our own. 

" The next day we were ordered to prepare to march to the city 
of Mexico ; when about fifty leagues from which, we arrived at 
the town of San Miguel Grande. Here we were imprisoned for 
some time. Previous to being locked up. Col. Ortice, who was 
more kind to us than any other officer, marched us around and 
showed us the town and the plaza. We were evidently the 
greatest curiosity that the inhabitants had ever seen, for they 
flocked in numbers to see us. Our garments were soiled and tat- 
tered, and our condition most wretched. As we passed the doors 
of the houses, the women pitied us very much, and after we were 
locked up, the Mexican girls came and threw cakes and other eat- 
ables over the walls to us, though it was strictly forbidden at the 
time. On our arrival at Tacubaya, near the city of Mexico, 
Madame Tobias, and other French ladies, determined to give us a 



LIEUTENANT McMULLEn's NARRATIVE. 31 

dinner, as we were nearly starved to death. The Mexican officers, 
however, would not permit us to accept of it, when the indignation 
of every one became so great, that they were forced to open our 
prison doors ; and if ever poor mortals enjoyed a dinner, we cer- 
tainly did that one. To sit down once more at a table in a civil- 
ized way, with a white snowy cloth, and every luxury about you, 
after the long deprivations we had suffered, was too much for us. 
Our confusion and awkwardness was extreme, before the ladies, 
and it was some time before we could well handle our knife and fork. 
The ladies were delighted, and seemed to enjoy the fun more than 
we did the feast. 

" After we were released from the dingy prisons of Mexico," 
continued our narrator, '* we were invited to the house of Senor 
Don Floris, the splendour of which quite dazzled us. The walls 
were beautifully painted, resembling our papered walls at home ; 
the furniture was very costly, and every thing else was in ac- 
cordance with it. There were many young ladies present, one of 
whom played on the piano, and sang a song for us. One of us 
was then requested to sing, and having been told that I sang 
a comic song — for there were several of us that spoke Spanish — 
they immediately pressed me into service, and entreated me to favour 
them with a song, which I did, but I was stopped at the end of 
each verse, until it was translated to them. The song caused a 
great deal of merriment and hearty laughter. A dance was next 
proposed ; but not caring to make a greater display of the seat of 
my unmentionables than I could help — for all of us were yet nearly 
destitute of clothing — I resolutely kept my seat at the far end of 
the sofa. But there was no getting off; no excuse would do, and 
I was forced to take a stand by a fair girl upon the floor. My 
bashfulness was extreme, and the mischievous girls discovering 
the cause, for I was not the only one in the scrape, enjoyed the fun 
to the utmost. After the dance was over, and we had partaken of 
some refreshment, what was our surprise to find that our noble host 
had procured any quantity of clothing for us ! I was shown into a 
room where a bath had been prepared for me, and shortly after, 
while making my toilet, several of the ladies came in and insisted 
upon aiding to dress me. They combed my hair with their own 
hands, arranged my fine hnen collar for me, and showed me how 
to tie the silk sash about my waist. All this time they seemed to 
take evident delight at my confusion, and their conversation was 
continually interrupted with roars of laughter. Having completed 
my toilet for me, they brought me a looking-glass, and I assure 
you I thought I never looked better in my life. I could only ex- 
press my gratitude by kissing their hands ; and one of my most 
grateful remembrances, is that of Senor Don Floris and his family.'* 



32 REYNOSO AND COMARGO. 

It was now about 5, p. m., and the captain of the "boat deter- 
mined to discharge a portion of the freight, so as to enable us to 
proceed. To give one an idea of the serpentine bends of the 
river, although we were fifteen miles from Reynoso by water, yet 
the town was only one mile and a half off by land, and we could 
plainly see the spire of the church, and the tops of the houses ! 
Lieut. McMullen and ourself determined to ride back to town, and 
if it was practicable, to go up b}^ land. So we took our horses on 
shore, and saddled up. The town is quite neat, and is prettily 
laid off; the houses are principally built of a gray stone, many of 
Avhich had been injured by the late flood ; the church stands out 
in bold relief on the river side of the plaza, fronting towards it. 
Here Ave found the 1st infantry encamped, the officers of which 
kindly asked us to stay to supper, which we did. After talking 
over the news, and partaking of some of Mr. Murphej^'s " whisky 
toddy," liaYinfT concluded to remain on the boat, we started to 
return, Lieut. FL, of the 1st, accompanying us. 

It was now late, and the night very dark, and after riding about 
a mile or so, we found that we had taken the wrong road. We 
then turned back, and discovering a light, we rode up to it, and 
found two little shepherd boys, miserably clad, lying by a fire, 
whom we obtained to show us the road to the steamboat. After 
paying them, seeing that the poor boys trembled with the cold 
night air, we offered them a drink of liquor, which the eldest 
seemed to relish very much. One could not help but pity the little 
fellows ; they Avere used to hardships, however, for a roof seldom 
or never covered their heads. 

Having discharged a large portion of our freight, which was left 
in charge of Capt. Chapman and his company, we got under 
weigh at daylight, on the morning of the ITth, and succeeded in 
getting over the bar, and were once m.ore on our way for Comargo, 
Avhich is about 180 miles from Reynoso. The afternoon was 
cloudy, Avith rain, and as the navigation Avas diflicult, we lay by 
all night. The next day, at 8, p. m., aa'-o entered the mouth of the 
riA-er San Juan. The scenery here is wild and rugged, the banks 
being very high and steep, for the riA^er had fallen very much since 
we left Matamoras. Three miles from the mouth, Ave stopped at 
Clay Davis's place, on the east bank of the Rio Grande, called the 
"City of the Rio Grande," a beautiful situation, and the best point 
on the river. Whatever the city is to be, time Avill tell ; it noAA% 
hoAA'ever, contained only a feAv huts. 

Some two miles above the city of Rio Grand % on the left bank 
of the San Juan, is situated the town of Comargo, which but a feAV 
weeks ?go was one of the finest built toAvns in this section of 
country, and contained a population of nearly three thousand. 



THE RANGERS AT COMARGO. 



33 



On ascending the bank, we were struck with the desolation and 
ruin which had spread itself on every side. The late flood, 
which had been the cause of it, came on rapidly in the night, 
while the inhabitants were wrapped in their peaceful slumbers, 
and many had not the least intimation of it, until the waters had 
actually floated them out of their beds. From a description which 
we received from a Mexican, who was here at the time, it must 
have been heart-rending in the extreme. Mothers were seen 
wadino- waist-deep, carrying their children in their arms, hurry- 
ing to places of safety, filling the air with shrieks of dismay. 
The men were engaged saving the children, many of whom were 
clinging to floating materials, and carrying them to the tops of the 
houses for safety, which had become the only resort among the 
poorer classes, who hved in huts, and slept on the ground floor — 
while those who occupied two-story houses were in greater peril, 
for the walls becoming saturated, gave way and fell in with a 
crash, frequently drowning a whole family, while others were 
carried away by the flood, or drowned in their beds. There were 
many lives lost, and the destruction of property was very great, 
about two hundred houses having been ruined. The town was 
once very beautiful, and from the ruined walls we saw, the houses 
must have been quite pretty. It contains three plazas, in the 
middle one of which is situated the finest buildings, and where 
still stands a neat little church. 

Here we were welcomed by many friends, and were soon con- 
ducted to the camp of the Rangers, which lay at the upper end 
of the town. Our mess, in company with three others, occupied 
a long tent open at both ends, formerly used for an hospital, an old 
concern which had served to keep out the sun and rain ; while 
the rest occupied the vacant and ruined huts around. Many of the 
men had just come in from grazing their horses, and were now 
occupied in grooming them ; others were cooking over fires, and 
preparing supper. At sundown we were invited by our mess to 
take a cup of cofl^ee, out of a tin pot, and was reminded by them, 
after our hearty meal, that our cook-day would come on Monday. 
Rations of corn and oats were then served out for our horses — the 
guard was paraded, and the sentinels posted. It was a fine even- 
ing, and the Rangers sat round in groups listening to the songs 
and stories of their comrades. There is no place like camp for 
studying character. Men are there seen in their true light, and 
from the intimate association, every trait which is noble and good, 
or otherwise, is sure to manifest itself. There can be no deceit 
or affectation practised there to advantage. And whatever may 
be the rank or station of men in life, in camp all find their level. 
The aristocracy of wealth which governs in large cities among 



34 LIFE IN THE CAMP. 

civilians of the present day, is not respected or courted in the 
camp of a soldier. There, bravery and intelh'gence outrank it. 
At 9 o'clock the men retired, our beds consisting merely of a 
blanket spread on the ground, with a sack of corn or oats for a 
pillow, or heading as the " boys^^ called it, and save those who 
were on guard, all was soon hushed in sleep. 

On Sunday, the 19th, at daylight, a party of us went out about 
a mile and a half to graze our horses. The morning was beauti- 
ful, and as is always the case when we meet with new scenery, 
it elevated the soul, and one became more impressed with the 
grandeur of God's works. The country around looked bright and 
cheerful, the birds were singing their morning carols, and the 
green fields and forests of chaparral were pleasing to the eye. 
We carried our arms w^ith us, and on arriving at the pasturage, 
we slipped our horses' bridles around their necks, and merely un- 
buckled the girths without taking off the saddle, so that in case 
of surprise, we would be ready for a fight or flight. We then 
untied our cabaristas or Mexican halters, which are about some 
twenty or thirty feet long, and holding the end in our hands, lay 
down and let our horses graze at will. The grass here was only 
tolerable, owing to the late overflow. On returning, we met several 
small parties of Mexicans on horseback, some of whom were carry- 
ing women before them, instead of behind them, as is the custom in 
our country. On reaching camp we rode down to the river, and 
■watered our horses. The banks were lined with women who 
carried earthen jars upon their heads, and were busy filling them 
with water — while others were occupied w^ashing clothes, and 
another group of girls were bathing in the river. They did not 
mind our presence at all, and swam with great ease and activity. 
After feeding and grooming our horses we went to breakfast. To 
have seen the diffl'rent messes sitting round their meal, one would 
have thought, from the savage-looking mien of the men, with their 
long matted hair and beards, and their singular costumes, that we 
were a band of brigands. Our life was a rough one, and although 
sometimes disagreeable, yet from its novelty and wild excitement 
it had many charms — for notwithstanding the hardships we suf- 
fered, there was much in it that partook of the romance of the 
olden days of chivalry. 

After breaktast, having determined to go to church, we com- 
pleted our toilet by greasing our boots, which came up over the 
caps of our knees, instead of blacking them. The chiming of the 
bells reminded us mightily of our old cathedral at New Orleans; 
and as it was so natural after taking one's cafe noir at the 
French market on Sunday morning, to drop into the cathedral to 
see our pretty Creole girls, and listen to the fine music of the 



VISIT TO THE CATHEDRAL. 35 

choir, we thought we would see if we could fancy ourself back 
there by taking a look into the Comargo cathedral. So we strolled 
up to the main plaza, and entered the church, but we were 
doomed to be disappointed. Picture to yourself a good-looking 
building outside, built of a brown lime-stone, with a very neat 
and pretty white steeple and spire which reminded one of a 
church in New England. The church is about sixty feet long, 
with two wings at the rear, leading to which is a very narrow 
aisle about twelve feet wide, where stands the altar, which was 
decorated with wax figures and crosses. On one side was a figure 
of the Holy Virgin, and on the other a figure representing the 
Saviour on the cross. The tinsel gilt ornaments that surrounded 
them had the appearance of a worn-out player's wardrobe. The 
Senoritas were all kneeling on the left-hand side of the aisle, 
while the greasers, or Mexican citizens stood up on the right, 
there being no seats or pews. Over the front door of the church 
was placed a small gallery, containing the choir, which was com- 
posed of one bass, and one tenor singer, one clarion, and a mando- 
lin. There were no female singers. And such exquisite screech- 
ing, and strange jumbling of sounds as was produced by their 
combined efforts, we thought was most admirabl}'- adapted for the 
sheet iron band, or for one of our southern negro congo dances. 
We could not be made to believe that it was sacred jnusicJ and 
so far from being piously impressed, it was as much as we could 
do to keep from laughing outright. The priest did not pretend 
to preach a sermon'; but after prayers were said he went through 
a ceremony that we never before witnessed. His robes were of 
the most fantastical colours, rudely embroidered and trimmed with 
gold. At a given signal, four little boys approached, each holding 
a pole, which supported the four corners of a red canopy trimmed 
with gold edging, which the priest got under, when they marched 
down the aisle ; the choir at the same time struck up a regular 
jig, for we can compare it to nothing else, and as they reached 
the door, there was not room for them to turn round, so they 
marched out into the street, and re-entered marching back to the 
altar. The music then ceased, when the priest took off his robes, 
and without pronouncing a Benedicite, his flock were dismissed. 
The ]\! xican girl^ here are nearly the same in feature as our 
Choctaw Indians. Now and then you see one rather pretty. 
They generally dress in calicoes, some few in silks : their dresses 
are all very short ivaisted, which make them look somewhat Hko 
Dutch girls. They wear over their heads a light scarf, which 
hangs down at the sides, and which they frequently make use of 
as a veil, called ribosa. They wear no bonnets, nor know what 
they are, the fashion not yet having been introduced among them. 



36 MEXICAN WOMEN. 

Their principal employment is in weaving blankets, which they 
do very ingeniously, assorting the colours with great taste. They 
card the wool and spin from the distaff, as our mothers did in 
ancient times. Some of the blankets of their manufacture, are 
extremely beautiful, and cost as high as a hundred dollars. Hav- 
ing no books to read, and being totally illiterate, with few excep- 
tions, they spend their afternoons in hunting among each others' 
tresses of long black hair; they have no combs, and use a kind 
of straw brush, with which they part the hair, in order to find 
the objects of their industrious search. They bathe every morn- 
ing and evening in crowds in the river, and indeed are more lack- 
ing in modesty than in virtue. 

The women generally washed for us — charging one dollar per 
dozen without ironing, and two dollars if ironed. I was surprised, 
however, to see with what neatness they did up the clothes. 
Sefiora Juan Sanches, having two good-looking daughters, received 
the principal custom. The houses were generally miserably fur- 
nished. Some, however, were quite neat. They have very 
pretty worked cushions, which, on entering a house, they always 
place in a chair for you to sit on. They generally treated us 
kindly, but were very suspicious and distrustful ; and whenever 
there were Mexican men about, they would refuse to converse 
with us. The women keep the money and the treasure of their 
husbands, which is generally hid in the ground ; and there are 
many stories about large sums having been found in digging about 
old ranches. 



CHAPTER y. 

News of the War reaches Texas — Formation of Capt. McCulloch's Company, 
of Rangers — March to Corpus Christi — The Ford of the Laguna del Madre 
— Padre's Island — Uncle Tilley — The Carankawa Indians — Arrival at Point 
Isabel — March to Matamoras — Scout towards Linares — Incidents — Capture 
of the Mexican Mail — Arrival at Reynoso. 

CoMARGO about this time presented a scene of as busy an aspect 
as any commercial city. Steamers were daily arriving with sub- 
sistence, stores, and munitions of war. There might have been 
frequently seen four or five steamers at a time at the landing, be- 
sides the ferry boats which were constantly crossing and recross- 
ing the river. The banks were crowded with barrels and boxes, 
and teams rattled along at as dangerous a rate as in one of our 
great cities. The whole of the Second Division of the army, 
under Gen. Worth, had arrived, and every thing told that great 
preparations were making for stirring events, the character of 



37 

which was not to be mistaken. The period had arrived when the 
services of our company were most needed ; there was much in 
store for us, and we longed for the exciting moments which should 
call our energies into action. That time had come. But before 
we proceed to relate the incidents of our adventurous scouts, it 
will be necessary, for the sake of unity, that our narrative should 
revert to the period when our company was first called into the 
field ; and we must request the reader to accompany us back to 
the scenes and incidents which occurred from the time of its 
organization up to the moment of our admission into its ranks. 
The following sketches of that period have been kindly furnished 
us by the talented author of the following song, who also served 
with us in the ranks : 

THE RANGER'S SONG.— Air: "I'm Afloat." 

By James T. Lytle. 

I. 

Mount ! mount ! and away o'er the green prairie wide— 
The sword is our sceptre, the fleet steed our pride ; 
Up ! up ! with our flag — let its bright star gleam out- 
Mount ! mount ! and away on the wild border-scout ! 

II. 
We care not for danger, we heed not the foe — 
Where our brave steeds can bear us, right onward we go, 
And never, as cowards, can we fly from the fight, 
While our behs bear a blade, our star sheds its light. 

III. 
Then mount and away ! give the fleet steed the rein-— 
The Ranger's at home on the prairies again; 
Spur ! spur in the chase, dash on to the fight, 
Cry Vengeance for Texas ! and God speed the right. 

IV. 

The might of the foe gathers thick on our way — 
They hear our wild shout as we rush to the fray ; 
What to us is the fear of the death-stricken plain — 
We have "braved it before, and will brave it again." 

V. 

The death-dealing bullets around us may fall — 
They may strike, they may kill, but they cannot appal ; ^ 

Through the red field of carnage right onward we'll wade, 
While our guns carry ball, and our hands wield the blade. 

VI. 

Hurrah, my brave boys ! ye may fare as ye please, 
No Mexican banner now floats in the breeze ! 
'Tis the flag of Columbia that waves o'er each height, 
While on its proud folds our star sheds its light. 

VII. 

Then mount and away ! give the fleet steed the rein — 

The Ranger's at home on the prairies again ; 

Spur ! spur in the chase, dash on to the fight, 

Cry Vengeance for Texas ! and God speed the richt. 

4 



38 

As soon as the intelligence of the critical situation of the Ameri- 
can army on the Rio Grande reached Texas, and Gen. Taylor's 
call for volunteers was heard throughout the boundaries of the 
new state, the spirit of patriotism and martial glory which had 
burned so brightly and so long during the darkest periods of the 
*' Star Republic's" history, burst forth anew to gleam as brightly 
as in the days of its infant liberty. 

On the western frontier — that portion of the state nearest the 
seat of war — preparations for the campaign were most active and 
most earnest. No mock show of the pomp and pageantry of 
war was seen — no tap of spirit-stirring drum, or note of piercing 
fife — no trumpet-call, or bugle sound, was heard on the bor- 
der side. But there was wiping of rifles and moulding of bullets 
— cleaning of pistols and grinding of knives — packing of wallets 
and saddling of steeds ; in short, every step of preparation made, 
amid the encouraging smiles of mothers, wives, and sisters, who 
cheerfully came forth to lend their aid, making wallets, and 
moulding leaden messengers of death, giving evidence that the 
frontier men knew full well the importance of the duty which they 
had to perform ; and every movement which they made was an 
earnest that that duty would be gallantly done. 

In thirty-six hours after the express arrived, Capt. Ben McCul- 
loch had raised a choice company on the banks of the Guadaloupe, 
and set out for the seat of hostilities. This company was perhaps 
the best mounted, armed, equipped, and appointed corps that was 
out in the ranging service ; and from the time of its arrival at 
head-quarters until after its disbandment at Monterey, enjoyed 
more of the trust and confidence of the commanding general than 
any other volunteer company of the invading army. To this 
company we had the honour to belong ; and in venturing to give 
a detail of some of the expeditions in which it was engaged, we 
shall make the account most faithful and true. 

On the 13th of May we arrived at San Patricio, and received 
the news, much to our chagrin and disappointment, of the engage- 
ments of the 8th and 9th. We had hoped to have reached the 
army before a battle would be fought, but the distance we had to 
ride, although making forced marches, rendered it impossible for 
us to have done so. But although we were not able to participate 
in and share the glories of the 8th and 9th, we joyed to learn that 
Walker and his men had won imperishable renown. With the 
hope of still being in time to join in the pursuit of the defeated 
army, we hurried on to Corpus Christi, and the next day took up 
the line of march down Padre's Island to Point Isabel. Our way, 
after leaving Corpus Christi, lay along the sea-shore of the main 
land, until we came to the ford, which we were compelled to cross 



m 

before we reached the island. The crossing-place is about twenty 
miles distant from Corpus Christi, and is certainly the last place 
in the world a stranger would have supposed to be a ford. 

The Laguna del Sladre, an arm of the sea which separates the 
island from the main, is here about five miles wide, and it really 
looks like going to sea on horseback when you wade off from the 
land, and direct your course for the dimly seen shores of the 
island. The waves beat up against our horses' sides, and it was 
only with much difficulty that we could preserve our fire-arms 
from contact with the salt water. The water was so deep that it 
reached almost to our saddle-bows, and several of our horses nar- 
rowly escaped being bogged in the quicksands, which lie in dan- 
gerous proximity to the course of the ford. We waded across, 
however, without any serious mishap, and encamped near night- 
fall on the extreme northern point of the island. The next morn- 
ing, by the dawn of day, we were on the march along the 
sea-beaten coast. The island is uninhabited save by one old man, 
who follows the business of a wrecker, and fives not far from 
Point Isabel, in a wild-looking place, which he cafis, after himself, 
" Tilley's Camp." To describe one day's travel on this island 
will be sufficient. Starting early in the morning, and riding 
until mid-day, we would stop to noon it, i. e. to cook our provi- 
sions and graze our horses ; resting an hour or two, we would then 
continue our way along the interminable beach until we pitched 
our camp at night. This monotonous course was pursued from 
day to day, and never were a set of men or horses more heartily 
tired of any one portion of this earth's surface, than we and our 
steeds were of Padre's Island. The island is one hundred and 
twenty-five miles long, and averages only a mile in width, con- 
taining no sign of vegetation, save a species of sour wiry grass, 
which our horses would only eat when compelled by hunger. 
There is not a single tree throughout its whole extent. On all 
sides is to be seen sand hillocks and sand wastes ; and, taken 
altogether, it is one of the most gloomy and desolate looking 
places which it has ever been our bad fortune to visit. It seemed 
to us to be a long shoe from the western coast of the desert of 
Sahara, detached by some convulsion of nature, and floated over 
and anchored on the eastern shore of Mexico. How any human 
being could ever voluntarily choose it as a place of residence, we 
cannot conceive. Yet old " Uncle Tiliey" lives there, and em- 
ploys himself in gathering the wrecks of cargoes with which the 
beach is strewn, seeming perfectly happy in his loneliness, the 
undisputed lord of this desert isle. 

It is said, though since the commencement of the Mexican war, 
that a small tribe of Indians — the Carankawas — who once resided 



40 THE CARANKAWAS INDIANS. 

on the shores of Matagorda bay, have removed to this island, and 
perhaps will yet dispute the " right of occupancy" with " Uncle 
Tilley." The history of this tribe is a most singular one. Driven 
along the shores of Texas by the tide of Avhite emigration, they 
have found in every other Indian tribe implacable foes. Pressed 
on by the whites, pursued and hunted down by the Mexicans, de- 
feated and cut to pieces by the Comanches, Lipans, and other 
prairie Indians, wherever they were caught upon the plains ; they 
gained a scanty subsistence by gathering oysters along the sea- 
shore, and fishing in the bays. They finally pitched upon Mata- 
gorda bay, as a place of residence, but were again driven out by 
the Texians, who rapidly settled along the shores. To be perse- 
cuted and oppressed, to be down-trodden and insulted, seemed to 
be the unhappy fate of this miserable race ; until, driven to despe- 
ration by their suiferings, they resolved to put an end to their name 
and race forever. Murdering their women and children, the war- 
riors sought for some uninhabited island, where they could wait 
patiently for that death which was for ever to destro}?- all traces of 
their tribe. It is now said, they have chosen Padre's Island as a 
suitable spot to hnger out the remnant of their miserable lives, and 
make their lonely graves. 

About 12 o'clock on the morning of the 19th of May, we came 
in sight of the shipping lying at Point Isabel ; and never was the 
sight of masts and yards more welcome to a land-sick mariner, 
than were these signs of life and civilization to eyes which had 
for nearly a week gazed upon nothing but one dreary waste of 
sand and sea. We found on the point of the island several tents 
which were occupied by boatmen, who ferried passengers over to 
Point Isabel, and by one of these ferrymen, we informed the offi- 
cers at the fort of our arrival, and signified our desire to cross im- 
mediately. 

Taking advantage of the departure of the boat, several of us 
left our horses in the care of our messmates, and embarked at once 
for the Point. The httle craft, favoured by a fair wind, sped mer- 
rily over the smooth waters of the bay, and soon landed us at the 
long wished-for place of destination. Fort Polk, Frontone, or 
Point Isabel, has already been described. We found every thing 
in a state of excitement, and everybody apparently busy. Every- 
where bustle and business prevailed, but the movements of every 
one were controlled by strict order and discipline. Every thing was 
pleasant to look upon. But more pleasant to our eyes than gay 
uniforms or glittering arms, snow-white tents, or banners fluttering 
in the breeze, was the sight of some old familiar faces, which we 
had not gazed upon for years, but which were the first to welcome 
us with smiles to the soil of Mexico, and greet us warmly in a 



PALO ALTO AND RESACA DE LA PALMA. 41 

strange land, with the long unheard, but unforgotten accents of 
home. We found ourself, through the kindness of a relative, who 
was at that time attached to the suttler's department, comfortably- 
quartered within doors, and although fearing to expose our health 
by sleeping under a roof, and shut up in a close house, yet we 
managed to do justice to the good things which graced his table, 
with an energy which would have tasked most landlords' hospi- 
tahty to the utmost. 

The sea breeze, hard riding, and short rations, are wonderful 
aids to the appetite, and we had enjoyed all these so long that we 
possessed one so keen and importunate, that it would not have 
disgraced a Comanche gourmand. Salt air and brackish water 
make a decided impression, also, upon the organs of thirst ; and 
if you add to this the temperature of the weather at about 90°, it 
is not wonderful that we abandoned the vulgar drinks of bad 
brandy and execrable whisky, adulterated with salt water, and 
took to iced sherry cobblers with remarkable avidity. But good 
things, like the pleasant times of this world, have only a short 
duration, and our enjoyments at Point Isabel lasted only a few 
short days. 

On the afternoon of the 22d, we were ordered to move to Mata- 
moras, and taking up our march, encamped the same night at the 
first battle-ground — the much talked-of field of Palo Alto. We 
threw out our line of sentinels, and spread our blankets under 
some of the bushes, expecting to obtain rest and sleep ; but whe- 
ther it was the woful reflections conjured up by our thoughts run- 
ning upon the terrible scenes of bloodshed and slaughter, so lately- 
enacted here, or that the musquitoes and gallinippers, rendered 
pugnacious by association, continued their bloody attacks and in- 
cessant charges upon us, biting us intolerably from dark until day, 
that prevented us from closing our eyes in sleep that night, we do 
not know. It might have been our reflections on the battle-ground, 
but we rather think from the way the old campaigners grumbled, 
that it was the musquitoes. 

General W^orth and staff' passed our camp at midnight on their 
way to Matamoras. The next day, as early as possible, we were 
in our saddles, and marching to the same point. At about 12 
o'clock, we arrived at Resaca de la Palma, which still bore the 
fresh signs of recent and terrible conflict. Strewn about on every 
side were the hats, cartridge-boxes, belts, broken bayonets, and 
torn and bloody garments of the Mexican soldiery; while the free 
fresh air of heaven was tainted by the horrible effluvia arising 
from the dead bodies of horses, mules, and oxen which lay on 
every side. To avoid inhaling the " horrid incense" of the battle- 
field, we rode on, leaving the wolves and carrion birds to gorge 

4* 



42 MATAMORAS. 

and batten undisturbed upon the dainty feast prepared for their re- 
volting appetites by man. Terrible and sad as are the scenes of 
savage or civilized warfare ; awful as are its sights and sounds, it 
hath no sadder or more soul-chiUing sight, than the lonely, deserted 
battle-field; no more disgusting, heart-freezing souiids, than the 
snarl and growl of the wild wolf, as he tears his helpless prey, or 
the flapping wings and discordant cry of the carrion bird, as he 
stoops to his hateful feast. 

Matamoras ! Matamoras ! was shouted along the line as we 
came in sight of the town we had so ardently desired to see. And 
far in the distance, with its white walls and turrets gleaming in 
the sunlight, with the American flag floating proudly over it, we 
beheld the first Mexican town captured by American arms. Mex- 
ican towns are all magnificent at a distance ; but you must not ap- 
proach too closely, unless you wish to find, in many of them, all 
your beautiful dreams of Moorish palaces and Oriental gardens, 
orange groves, and shady avenues immediately fade away, and in 
their place, cherish recollections of rude mud-built houses, plas- 
tered and whitewashed ; windows without glass, hot dusty streets, 
and a dirty, lazy, and most unpoetical-looking set of inhabitants. 

As we approached the river bank, drums were beating and fifes 
blowing, and on all sides were noise and excitement ; flags flut- 
tering, arms gleaming, teamsters cursing at their unruly animals ; 
soldiers drilling, dogs barking, and Mexican hucksters bawhng 
their goods at their voices' tops. Pursuing our way through the 
various groups which lined the road side, we rode by several com- 
panies, who presented arms as we passed, and returning their 
salute, we proceeded to our quarters, which were almost directly 
under the walls of Fort Brown. Here we found Walker's and 
Price's companies of Rangers encamped, and here we constructed 
our tents for the present, — constructed, we say, because the go- 
vernment never furnished us, during our whole term of service, 
w;ith a patch of canvass large enough to keep out a drop, of rain, 
or shield us from a ray of the scorching sun. Whether it was 
because they thought the Texian troops were accustomed to, and 
could endure more hardships than any other troops in the field, we 
do not know. One thing is certain, they gave us as ample an oppor- 
tunity to evince our greatest powers of endurance and fortitude as 
the disciples of Diogenes could have desired, had they been placed 
in our room and stead. We were left to shift for ourselves, wholly 
unprovided with tents, camp equipage, or cooking utensils. Had 
we been allowed to appropriate to our own use the unoccupied 
houses of the enemy, we would have asked no favours from friend 
or foe ; but while the strictest injunctions were laid upon us, in 
regard to the property of the Mexicans, we were charitably left 



SCOUT TOWARDS LINARES. 43 

to brave unsheltered as much of the sun and rain as heaven pleased 
to send upon us. The consequence was, that wherever we were 
encamped for any length of time, we were obliged to construct 
rude shelters out of poles, cane, rushes, or any other material 
which the vicinity afforded. And the Rangers' camp frequently 
looked r lore like a collection of huts in a Hottentot hamlet, or a 
group ot rude wigwams in an Indian village, than the regular 
cantonment of volunteers in the service of the United States. 

We remained in camp at Matamoras, until the 12th of June, 
when we received orders to follow the trail of Arista's army as 
far as practicable — pierce the country in the direction of Linares, 
to ascertain the condition of the road, the quantity of water, &c. — 
in short, to discover if the route could possibly be used for the line 
of march for a large division, with its artillery and wagons, intended 
to penetrate the enemy's country in this direction. Much rejoiced 
at this prospect of active service, we saddled up with light hearts 
and willing hands ; and in a few hours after the order was received, 
we were ready for the journey. 

On the morning of the 12th, we were busily engaged in trans- 
porting ourselves and horses across the Rio Grande to the Mata- 
moras side. The ferry boats used for this purpose were the same 
formerly employed by the Mexicans at this point, — and poorer 
apologies for ferry boats than these were, can scarcely be imagined. 
You might cross half the rivers in the world, and never look upon 
their like again — clumsy, leaky barges, that threatened every mo- 
ment to go to the bottom, and promised to deposit their cargoes 
anywhere but on the opposite bank. At 12 o'clock, had crossed 
the whole command, and we moved through the town of Mata- 
moras, to commence our scout. To throw upon the wrong scent 
any Mexican spies who might be watching our movements, Capt. 
McCuUoch took the direct road to Reynoso, as if he intended to 
join Col. Wilson's command, which was stationed at that post. ' 
Accordingly, we encamped that night, at the Rancho de Guade- 
loupe, and feasted on roasting-ears, water-melons, musk-melons, 
and every vegetable luxury that the rancho afforded. The most 
of us had a little pocket-change, and we drove a lively trade 
with the Mexicans, for all the eatables they could bring to our 
camp. Our orders were most strict as regarded our intercourse 
with the Mexicans, and we were enjoined to take nothing with- 
out giving an adequate compensation. Our government was wise 
enough to suppose that they could conquer the Mexicans by 
kindness, and force them to a speedy cessation of hostihties, by 
affording them a ready market for every thing they could ra^'^se, 
and paying enormous prices for every thing we obtained at their 
hands. The pohcy of the government was to concihate the peo- 



44 ADVENTURES ON THE LINARES ROAD. 

pie. How absurd that policy has been, the experience of the cam- 
paign has since exhibited. To us, however, the policy of the 
government was nothing. Our second-lieutenant, James Allen, 
acting-commissary, had his saddle-bags well filled with specie, to 
purchase all the forage and provisions we needed on the road. 
Our orders were most strict, and most strictly did we obey them ; 
and, as far as our own knowledge extends, we do not know of an 
instance where a single article was procured without they were 
remunerated by more than twice its value. The next morning, 
after leaving the rancho, we followed the Reynoso road until we 
were out of sight of the rancheros ; then altering our course to the 
south, struck across to the Linares road. This was the route fol- 
lowed by Arista's army in its flight, and he seemed to have chosen 
it because it was the one least likely to be followed by the Ameri- 
cans in pursuit. It leads over a rough barren country, which is 
nearly destitute of water, and is almost impracticable for an army, 
which is compelled to move like ours, accompanied by large trains 
of heavy baggage wagons. During the day, the horse of one of 
our party became so lame that it was found impossible for him to 
proceed further, and the man was consequently compelled to return 
to Matamoras. The incidents of the day were rather of a cooling 
than an exciting nature, for we were visited by frequent showers 
of rain, which soaked us to the skin. But although it thoroughly 
wetted our bodies, it could not dampen our spirits, and we rode on 
our way as merrily, with song, and laugh, and jest, as if, instead 
of riding on a perilous scout, we had been gayly trooping to a 
wedding or a fair. Just before daylight, on the third morning 
after our departure, our sentinels challenged a party of Mexicans 
who were travelling to Matamoras. Our camp was immediately 
upon the road-side, and of course no one could travel it without our 
knowledge and consent. Capt. McCulloch and several of the men 
were saddling the horses previous to an early start, and when the 
sentinel hailed, McCulloch rode out to see the party. "Quien 
vive?" challenged the leader of the ranchero party. " Amigos," 
replied McCulloch, riding up. "Nuestros amigos — los malditos 
Americanos," cried the ranchero, presenting his escopette at McCul- 
loch's breast. " Saddle up, men, and follow me !" shouted he, as 
he charged at once into the astonished group of Mexicans. They 
fled in consternation at finding a large party, where they expected 
to see only a few men, and bolted at top speed for the chaparral, 
which was only a few hundred yards distant from the road. Right 
happy was it for them that they possessed so much the advantage 
of the start, and a knowledge of the ground over which they ran, 
for there was hot blood at their heels, and half a dozen reckless 
fellows, mounted on the fleetest horses in the company, followed 



VESTIGES OF A MEXICAN CAMP. 45 

our captain, in the mad pursuit. The ground was so uneven, and 
full of holes, that several of our horses fell in the chase ; and this, 
together with the want of sufficient light, enabled them to effect 
their escape. But so hotly were they pressed, that several of 
them abandoned their horses, guns, pistols, spurs, and in fact 
every thing that could be dropped, and took to the chaparral on 
foot, where they were safe, as we could not follow them into it on 
horseback. The pursuing party returned to camp with the booty, 
after finding that further pursuit was useless; and much was our 
disappointment, afterwards, on learning that one of the fugitives 
was the murderer of Col. Cross, — the notorious ranchero chief 
and robber. Bias Falcon. One of the young men who was fore- 
most in the chase, was so severely injured by falling upon his 
knife, when his horse fell under him, as to render it impossible for 
him to proceed further; and as we had already passed several 
ranchos, it was deemed prudent to send several men with him, as 
an escort to Matamoras. 

This reduced our party to thirty-five, all told, for we had only 
selected forty of the best mounted men in the company for this 
expedition. " It would be difiicult," says Mr. Kendall, who was 
one of our party, " to picture the astonishment and alarm at the 
different ranchos, as the Rangers entered them ; or the conster- 
nation of those upon whom we came suddenly upon the road. By 
forced night marches, our commander frequently got upon the 
other side of some of the settlements, and rode into them, as if 
direct from Monterey or Linares, and going towards Matamoras. 
By doubling and twisting about, they were thrown completely off 
the scent, and were willing to answer any questions with a readi- 
ness which showed that they thought life or death depended upon 
their alacrity." 

At El Ebonilla, we procured a supply of corn, sufficient to last 
our horses for two days. We here also received the unwelcome 
intelhgence, that there were no more ranchos on the road at which 
this important article could be obtained. We pushed on as far as 
we could make the supply last, and on the road met many parties 
of Mexicans, whose evident alarm and surprise convinced us that 
we were unlooked-for travellers in this part of the country. We 
passed several of the camps where Arista had rested his army, 
during its rapid retreat to Linares. The camping place was al- 
ways marked by the rags, and old worn-out shoes and sandals that 
the soldiers had left behind ; and occasionally the ground was 
strewn with stray cards from a montepack, showing that even in 
their hasty flight they had found time to indulge in that passion, 
which is most deeply seated in a Mexican's nature — the love of 
gambling. 



46 

Our camp, on the night of the 20th of June, was in a pleasant 
musquit-grove, while the ground around it afforded ample pastur- 
age for our horses. We had learned the day before, from some 
Mexican shepherds, that there was no water to be found on the 
road, from this point to Linares, a distance of about sixty miles. 
Capt. McCuUoch thought it advisable to ascertain this fact, before 
he proceeded farther, and accordingly despatched Lieut. McMul- 
len with ten men, to a water-hole about ten miles ahead, that was 
marked as unfailing, to discover if our informants or our map of 
the country were wrong. Lieut. McMullen pushed on to the 
water-hole, and found it dry, and then riding within thirty miles 
of Linares, returned with the unwelcome intelligence to camp. 
This was the first instance in which we had discovered a mistake 
in our chart, it being for the most part admirably correct. The 
map was furnished to Capt. McCulloch by Gen. Taylor, being 
an accurate copy of the one found in Gen. Arista's military chest, 
captured at the battle of Resaca de la Palma. It was a most 
minute and accurate picture of the face of the country, between 
the Rio Grande and the " Sierra del Madre," and every rancho 
and village, every road or mountain path, every water-pond and 
insignificant streamlet were marked down with a truthfulness and 
precision, which we found but rarely at fault, and which, consi- 
dering the vast extent of country it represented, was really aston- 
ishing. The map was common property in camp, and we all 
studied it so well that we soon had a thorough knowledge of the 
face and bearing of the whole country, stretching from the moun- 
tain ridges to the waters of the Rio Grande. This knowledge 
was of much importance to all of us ; as frequently during our 
scouts a separation of the command was unavoidable, and often a 
single man would have to depend upon his own knowledge and 
skill, to pilot himself through many miles of a wilderness into 
camp. 

Finding it impossible to proceed much farther in this direction, 
and having ascertained that this route was impracticable as a line 
of march for a large division of our army, on account of the scar- 
city of water, our captain determined to leave the Linares road, 
and strike across to the main road, leading from Matamoras to 
Monterey. The result of the reconnoissance on the Linares road 
was as follows : — First, that this route from Matamoras to Monte- 
rey was not as practicable a one for the advance of our troops, 
when they sought to penetrate to the mountains, as the route via 
Comargo and Serralvo. Secondly, that Arista had removed the 
greater portion of his forces from Linares to Monterey, leaving a 
garrison in the former place of 1000 infantry, and a few squadrons 
of cavalry ; and, lastly, that Gen. Canales was at that time en- 



A HOT DAY IN JUNE. 47 

gaged in recruiting rancheros, not far from us on the Monterey- 
road. To strike the " chaparral fox" in his own hills — slaughter 
his band, and take " reynard" himself captive, was a thing above 
all others McCulloch most desired to do. So, having accomplish- 
ed his commands, in regard to the information above mentioned, 
he determined to strike suddenly across to the Monterey road, and 
endeavour to obtain a fight, or a foot-race, out of the ranchero 
general. 

On the morning of the 21st, then, our course was changed, and 
we rode off at a right angle from our former route. A Mexican 
shepherd whom we forced to accompany us as a guide, warned 
us, that in the direction we were going we would find no water, 
and advised us to follow another course, which he said would lead 
to the same point, and that though the way was longer, still it was 
plentifully suppHed with water-holes. The road he pointed out 
did not lead in exactly the direction we thought we ought to travel, 
and not having implicit confidence in the honesty of his intentions, 
he was ordered peremptorily to lead us on the first-named course. 
On we vamosed over high rocky hills and immense level plains, 
through thicket and brake, over dingle and dell ; sometimes passing 
along hill sides thickly covered with wesatchee bushes, (the acacia,) 
which were all in full bloom, and the modest httle yellow flowers 
gave to the morning air a fragrance which was dehghtful to inhale. 
Sometimes we followed the trail of innumerable droves of wild 
horses that roamed in freedom over this immense range of waste 
country. Sometimes we travelled for miles, without a single sign 
to guide us over the untrodden hills, but the position of the sun 
in the heavens, and a knowledge of the course we wished to pursue. 

The 21st of June, we shall long remember as a day of great 
suffering and fatigue. It was the longest day in the year, and by 
far the hottest we ever experienced ; to add, too, to our misery, 
there was not a single breath of air to fan our burning brows, or 
cool our fevered cheeks. A vertical sun poured down his fiery 
rays upon us the live-long day, without even once veiling his fierce 
glare by the shadow of a passing cloud. "Hot! hot! hot !" would 
ejaculate some half-fainting one. 

" You had better say, ' scorching and roasting,' " retorted his 
file-leader. 

" By the forge of Vulcan," drawled a classical youth, whose 
love of the romantic had led him to join the Rangers — " By the 
forge of Vulcan, the weather is intensely warm." 

"I don't know what blacksmith you are talking about, young- 
ster," growled an old Ranger at his side ; " but if you'd say that 
a volcano was an ice-house to this place, you'd come nigher the 
mark, I reckon." 



48 THE WATER-HOLE. 

The weather was so unmercifully hot, that to prevent our horses' 
backs from scalding, we had frequently to dismount, and unsaddle, 
and rub them dry before we could proceed. The poor beasts 
seemed to feel the heat more sensibly, if possible, than we did. 
The tardy step, the half-closed eye, the drooping head, and 
the panting and expanded nostril, plainly manifested the degree 
and extent of their sufferings. Water was demanded on every 
side. We had emptied our gourds and canteens of their con- 
tents early in the day, and were now suffering intolerably from 
thirst. 

" Water ! can't that infernal guide find us water ?" shouted a 
voice in the rear. 

" Keep quiet there, men," said McCulIoch ; " scatter out on both 
sides of the road, and see if you can find a water-hole." 

The order was promptly obeyed, and the men rode off' in all di- 
rections to prosecute the search. 

The sun was about half an hour high, when a horseman came 
galloping up with the joyful news that he had found a water-hole 
about half a mile to the right. Helter-skelter, without order the 
party scampered off to reach the quenching nectar of their burn- 
ing thirst. It was a wild, hard race, but McCulloch reached it 
first, and dismounting, threatened to shoot the first man that rode 
into the pond. The water-hole was a mere mud-puddle at best, 
and could not have contained much over a hogshead of water; 
so that, had not our captain taken the precautions he did, it 
would not have sufficed for half of the company. For man and 
beast had suffered so much for want of water, that when they did 
reach it, they were inclined to rush into the middle of the pond, 
which would have rendered it unfit, even for the animals. The 
order was now given for every man to dismount and fill his can- 
teen and gourd, and drink sufficient to satisfy himself ; after- 
wards the horses were led up to the edge, and allowed to drink 
without muddying the water. Notwithstanding it was stagnant 
and lukewarm, it was drunk with avidity. The pack-mules' turn 
came next, but they were not so easily managed, for in spite of our 
exertions, two or three broke away, and after running into the 
middle of the little pond, and taking their fill, they rolled over and 
over into the mud, seeming to enjoy extremely the pleasures 
of the bath. Luckily for them, we had all drunk as much as 
we wanted, or the poor beasts would have paid dearly for their 
pleasure. 

Several of the men, who had wandered about during the day 
in search of water, had eaten large quantities of the ripe prickly 
pear, which grows in great abundance all over the country. The 
fruit is much in shape hke a pear, of a blood red colour, very 



A MAJOR IN THE RANKS. 4§ 

juicy, and full of small seeds ; the outside is covered with fine 
furz, which is sharper to the touch than the points of fine cam- 
bric needles. Those who had thus indulged, paid dearly for it — 
for that night they were taken down with a violent fever and ague, 
which this fruit invariably produces on those who have not be- 
come acclimated. 

The guard was posted, and as we spread our blankets down 
that night, after the severe day's travel, we congratulated each 
other on the pleasant night we would pass after all our fatigue. 
In truth it was a peerless night; there was not a single cloud to 
mar the deep blue of the boundless sky, and the moon's bright 
orb, like some vast silver shield hung midway in the vault of 
heaven, shedding a world of light upon the quiet scene. It 
chanced that we had spread our blanket down by the side of one 
of our messmates, who was a veteran of the Texas wars. Major 
R. was among the first who emigrated from Kentucky to Texas. 
He had commanded a company at San Jacinto ; fought through 
the Federal war, was Lieutenant-colonel at the " Parbon fight," 
and now, with the unasking modesty and unambitious zeal of a 
true Texian, had, when his country needed his services, come out at 
her call, as a simple private in a ranging corps. The Major was a 
fine companion, and a specimen of the gallantry and chivalry of 
"olden days." He had been through the "tug of war," and as 
he expressed it, " having seen the elephant, he was now going to 
see the ca-r«-van." It happened that we were provided with a 
water-proof cloth, which, upon this occasion, we proposed to 
spread over both the Major and ourself, to keep off the heavy 
dews. The Major readily accepted the proposition, and we 
" spooned" up together as affectionately as possible. About mid- 
night we were awakened by a tremendous thunder peal, and 
found that a storm had been brewing during our sleep; the sky 
was as black as ink, and the rain coming down in torrents; we 
drew our head under the water-proof, and were piously engaged 
in praying for those poor fellows who were exposed to the fury of 
the storm, without any shelter whatever, when we suddenly felt 
a httle rivulet commence its meanderings under the very spot 
where our blankets were spread. The "windows of heaven were 
opened," and the flood still continued to rise higher and higher. 

The under blanket was now completely saturated, and the 
water still continued to rise. We discovered that we were lying 
in a litile gully which was rapidly filling, but bore our affliction 
as quietly as possible, and without murmuring, being ashamed to 
grumble while the Major slept so soundly. But it was past 
endurance, for the water had now risen half way up our side, 
filling our powder-horn, which was unfortunately unstopped, and 

6 



60 A WET NIGHT IN CAMP. 

becoming desperate, we awoke the Major, and asked him if it 
would not be advisable to shift our quarters ? Stopping one of his 
long snores, with a loud snort, the Major showed his head from 
under cover, and inquired what we wanted. 

"Bless me," cried he in the same breath, "why, it is raining ! 
The ground is getting damp too." 

"We think it is, Major, and if we don't leave this pretty- 
soon, we shall be washed off. Let's move to some dryer place." 

"Lie down, 'Jim,' lie down and go to sleep. Don't you see 
that we have got this puddle of water warm now, by the heat of 
our bodies, and if we move, we shall only get into another, and 
take cold. So lie down, ' Jhn,' and go to sleep ; it's nothing when 
you get used to it." 

We could not but admire the Major's philosophy, but, notwith- 
standing, we had not yet become a sufficient convert of hydropathy 
as to sleep in the v)arm puddle! So taking up our blanket, much 
against the Major's will, we sat down at the foot of a tree, and 
slept for the remainder of the night in that position. That a man 
can sleep, and soundly too, half immersed in water, may seem 
strange to those who have never spent much time in the woods ; 
but to those who are well acquainted with a frontier life, it appears 
natural enough, and we can assure the skeptical, that the forego- 
ing anecdote is literally true. 

The next morning, as soon as our blankets \yere sufficiently 
dry, we mounted, and again advanced towards the Monterey 
road. Our way now lay for the most part across bald and rocky 
hills. About noon we came upon a little pond in the hills, which 
was stagnant, the surface covered with a green scum, and the 
water itself almost warm enough to make coffee. Yet as none 
better was to be had, we were obliged to drink it, and notwithstand- 
ing its nauseousness, it served to quench our thirst. Shortly after 
leaving this pond we came in sight of the Monterey road, and by 
our sudden descent from the hills, alarmed a merchant very much, 
who was carting his goods to Monterey. That we were a band 
of robbers he was quite sure at first, from our appearance, and 
great was his delight when he found out his mistake. We pur- 
chased some corn from his carts, and also procured a supply of 
dried beef. While "nooning it" at the carts, a solitary horseman 
turned the angle of the road, about a quarter of a mile ahead of 
us, and halted in evident alarm, when he saw the bad company 
he was about to fall in with on his road. He was about to turn 
and fly, when he perceived about a dozen of the boys mounting 
to seek his company, so mustering up his courage he concluded to 
venture boldly into our camp, as escape was out of the question. 
As the horseman rode up, his salute was returned, and before he 



THE MAIL ROBBERY. 51 

could well make an excuse, which was hanging on his lips, he 
was immediately interrupted by a shout of "the mail rider!" the 
bag which he carried having betrayed him. It proved to be the 
Mexican mail from Monterey to Matamoras. The poor fellow 
thought his time had come. Our captain overhauling the mail, 
the letters were opened and examined, and such of them as were 
of a public nature were reserved for General TajHor's inspection; 
the rest were returned to the bag, when the man was allowed to 
proceed quietly on his route. His disappointment was so great in 
not being shot, that he made light of losing his letters, and mount- 
ing his pony, with a bland smile, bade us good-day. This was 
the first and only mail robbery in which we ever were engaged, 
and we had no idea before how easy the recollection of the evil 
deed would rest upon a man's conscience. 

We were unable to gain any farther information about Canales, 
only that he had been on this road about a week ago ; but of his pre- 
sent whereabouts we could not gain the slightest clew. So finding 
it useless to follow a cold trail, Captain McCulloch, in pursuance 
of his orders, turned his course towards Reynoso. As we drew 
near the town, which was yet in the distance, we could plainly 
hear the beating of the drums marshaling the garrison to arms. 
The fiat-house tops were covered with men and officers ; the latter 
were spying with their glasses and endeavouring to make out our 
character and number. To see a body of armed men approaching 
from the very quarter in which they expected the enemy, was 
enough to excite apprehensions of an attack. And as we rode 
into town as if direct from Monterey, the garrison very naturally 
mistook us for the advance guard of a Mexican force. We en- 
joyed their mistake very much, and as we dismounted in the 
plaza, the officers came out to greet us, saying that having at first 
mistrusted us, they were preparing to give us a warm welcomey 
instead of a hearty greeting. 

A few days after this, we learned that Canales had, at one time, 
been within a few miles of us, with a force of several hundred 
men. " That he was aware," says Mr. Kendall, in one of his 
letters, "of Capt. McCulloch being in his neighbourhood, there is 
but little doubt ; but whether he was unable to catch up with the 
hurried and comphcated movements of the Texians, or fearful of 
giving them battle, is more than this deponent can say. I say hur- 
ried and complicated movements of the Texians, because, from the 
time of our leaving Matamoras, to our reaching this place, the 
men never took off their coats, boots, or spurs ; not an extra or 
second shirt was carried by one of them; and although the wea- 
ther was rainy much of the time, and two heavy northers visited 



62 CAMP AT REYNOSO. 

US while encamped, there was not a minute when any man's 
pistol or rifle would have missed fire, or he would not have been 
up and ready for an attack. I have seen a goodly number of 
volunlers in my time, but Capt. Ben. McCulloch's men are choice 
specimens." 

We encamped under some shade trees, on the outskirts of the 
village of Reynoso, and thus ended the first scout in which our 
company was engaged. 



CHAPTER VI. 

Camp at Reynoso — Scenes and Incidents — An Express leaves for Matamo- 
ras — Lieut. McMuUen left in Command — Attempt to capture Canales at a 
Fandango — The Festival of St. Juan — The Chicken Race — Celebration of 
the Fourth of July — Pursuit of a Band of Robbers — The Arrival of the 
remainder of the Company at Reynoso — Our March to Comargo — Bill Dean's 
Story — Arrival at Comargo. 

The first few days that we were encamped near Reynoso, our 
ears were constantly assailed with rumours of contemplated night 
attacks, and horrible accounts of the weight of Mexican vengeance 
which was about to be visited upon our heads, for having dared to 
take possession of this pompous little village. At one time, we 
would be told by the bright-eyed Senoras — who, with pitying looks 
and confiding accents, whispered their doleful tales into our unbe- 
lieving ears — that Col. Juan Seguin, with all his valiant followers, 
would pounce upon us that very night ; yes, that very night, and 
as sure as fate, cut all our throats from ear to ear. " Holy Mother 
of God, how horrible !" And the sweet creatures would go weep- 
ing away, as if they reall}'- beHeved every word they had told us 
was true. 

The next day, it was not Juan Seguin, but Gen. Canales, with 
his gallant rancheros who was to exterminate us ; and when nei- 
ther of these made his appearance, it was some other redoubtable 
champion of Mexican liberty that was to sweep us from the face 
of the earth, and destroy our whole force effectually and entirely. 
But finding that their dreadful accounts of threatened attacks, and 
their confidential statements of the number and force of the over- 
whelming army that was shortly to extirpate us, produced no other 
effect in camp than to increase our merriment ; and their pruden- 
tial advice, so far from causing us to double our precautions, or 
place an extra man on duty, was received only with derision and 
contempt, they determined to abandon us to our fate as a set of 



POPULATION OF REYNOSO. 53 

hardened wretches, entirely too old to be either harassed or an- 
noyed by crediting false stories, or believing false alarms. We 
afterwards learned that they had been playing the same game on 
Col. Wilson, and for some time previous to our arrival the colo- 
nel had had his command on double duty, fearful, from the in- 
formation he daily received from the friendly toivn-people, that 
there was a large Mexican force in his immediate neighbourhood, 
only waiting a favourable moment to sweep down on him like an 
avalanche. 

So deep and inveterate was the hatred cherished by the people 
of this place against the Americans, that they resorted to these 
means as a plan to harass and annoy our troops, when they found 
no other mode left them to gratify their spite and ill-will. From 
all we could learn of its history, its population, and its reputation, 
we were disposed to consider the town of Reynoso as the most 
rascally place in all Mexico. The town itself is well enough, but 
the inhabitants are a set of the most irreclaimable scoundrels that 
are to be found anywhere in the valley of the Rio Grande — a race 
of brigands, whose avowed occupation is rapine and murder. It 
was here that the Mier prisoners were treated so inhumanly, as 
they were marched through on their way to the Castle of Perote ; 
the men cursing and stoning them, as they moved through the 
streets, and the women spitting on them, with all the malice of 
she-wolves. It was this place, too, that many of the robbing par- 
ties which ravaged the Texian frontier acknowledged as their 
head-quarters. And some of the scoundrels who were engaged 
in the " Rogers' massacre," lived here in peace and security. Yes! 
some of the incarnate fiends, who had committed the most horrible 
outrages and atrocities upon the members of that most unfortunate 
family, boldly walked the streets of Reynoso, and with the most 
consummate impudence, seemed fond of parading themselves di- 
rectly before our ver}-- eyes. Yet, such was the mild forbearance, 
and gentle conciliatory policy of our government towards this people, 
that we were not allowed to apprehend and punish these villains 
as they deserved, or visit upon them the speedy and terrible ven- 
geance they so richly merited from Texian hands. 

Our orders were most strict not to molest any unarmed Mexican, 
and if some of the most notorious of these villains were found shot, 
or hung up in the chaparral, during our visit to Reynoso, the go- 
vernment was charitably bound to suppose, that during some fit of 
remorse and desperation, tortured by conscience for the many evil 
deeds they had committed, they had recklessly laid violent hands 
tipon their otvn lives! " Quien sabe ?" 

The steamboat "Aid" having arrived, and discharged her cargo 

5* 



54 A NIGHT IN CAMP. 

of army stores, was about to return to Matamoras, when Captain 
McCulloch, Mr. Kendall, and a few others, determined to go down 
in her; Capt. McC. to conduct the rest of the company from 
Matamoras to Reynoso, and Mr. Kendall to seek more comfortable 
quarters than Reynoso afforded. The following description of 
our situation in camp was written by him, the night previous to 
his departure : — 

" But if Reynoso was not beleaguered by armed men, and if no 
villanous saltpetre was burnt, nor lead thrown, we passed any 
thing but a comfortable night of it. The early part was most dis- 
agreeably hot and sultry — enough of itself to prevent sleep, although 
we were encamped out of doors, and on the hard ground ; but to 
add to this, every dog in the town kept up a most incessant barking, 
and each separate whelp seemed engaged in an attempt to out- 
bark and out-howl his neighbour. How many dogs there are in 
Reynoso, 1 have no means of ascertaining, there being no tax upon 
the curs, nor any statistics from which correct information can be 
obtained ; yet, as the number of inhabitants is put down at 3000, 
I should think that by multiplying them by 750 — ^judging from the 
noise they make altogether — you might get somewhere in the neigh- 
bourhood of the number of dogs. When we have no positive data 
to go upon, we are obliged to resort to guess-work. Well, these ras- 
cally whelps barked away the hours until a rain-storm came up, 
and then we had a thunder gust for an accompaniment. Pleasant 
country, this ! but rather hard on that portion of the American 
people this side the Rio Grande. Do you know that I sometimes 
think of the St. Charles, the Verandah, and of Hewlett's — their 
sumptuous dinners and comfortable beds ! 

"Yet, with all the drawbacks above enumerated, we still made 
out to nap it awhile, towards morning. I could not help laughing 
at a young Ranger, whose blanket was within good hearing distance 
of mine. ' Well,' said he, 'if I'd been told when I left Mississippi, 
a year ago last Spring, by any one of my particular friends, that 
I could ever sleep in this w^ay — that I could ever catch a wink 
with all my clothes on, belted round with two pistols and a bovvie, 
boots on, and spurs to boot, — out doors, on the ground, and in a 
single blanket, and raining at that, I'd a told him that he lied, sure.* 
It's pretty much so." 

After the departure of Capt. McCulloch, the command of our 
party devolved upon Lieut. McMullen, and upon a better officer 
it could not have fallen. A few days after, two officers of the 
Mexican army were apprehended in Reynoso, and detained as 
spies, until the commands of Gen. Taylor in regard to them could 
be obtained. McMullen was called upon by Col. Wilson to fur- 



,. J 



A soldier's quarters. 55 

nish men to bear an express to Matamoras, and accordingly five 
men, under Sergt. Gibson, were detailed for this duty. This 
reduced our party to about twentj'^-five men. The rainy season 
in Mexico had now set in; our camp, which was near the river 
bank, was soon ankle deep in mud ; the heavy rain continued to 
fall incessantly ; we were unable to cook our food, or to sleep with 
any degree of comfort, for our clothes and blankets were tho- 
roughly saturated with water nij^ht and day. Lieut. McMullen 
represented the unpleasantness of our situation to Col. Wilson, 
and entreated him to allow us to occupy some of the untenanted 
sheds in the outskirts of the town. " My orders are positive, sir," 
replied the colonel, " and I cannot suffer any Mexican domiciles 
to be encroached upon. The quarters of a soldier, sir, in time of 
war, is the field." And having delivered himself of this pertinent 
speech, the colonel walked into his quarters^ a comfortable stone 
house — the best one in the place. 

We remained in our miserable quarters, which were now par- 
tially overflowed, for another day and night, and which we chris- 
tened "Camp Nasty," when the men became mutinous, and 
swore they would remain there no longer to please Col. Wilson, 
or anybody else. Lieut. McMullen went up again to the colonel 
to inform him that there was a large and comfortable cotton-gin 
shed on the opposite side of the town, which belonged to a colonel 
in the Mexican army, which was at that time unoccupied, and 
capable of giving ample shelter to ourselves and horses. Col. 
Wilson replied that " he could not think of allowing us to take 
possession of any thing that belonged to the Mexicans, unless they 
consented to it, as it was directly contrary to the policy of the 
government." McMullen then desired that he would suffer him 
to remove the company ten or fifteen miles into the country, to 
find a higher and drier camping place. This he said was too 
hazardous, as we might be cut off; besides, he wanted our ser- 
vices in case the town should be attacked. After, however, a 
formal demand, in writing, for quarters, the cotton-gin shed was 
reluctantly granted to us. We marched into it in triumph, and a 
few days afterwards we had the pleasure of swimming our horse 
over the very spot where we were formerly encamped. 

A three weeks' rain continued to deluge the earth ; the Rio 
Grande overflowed its banks, and the country around Reynoso 
was one vast sheet of water. But we cared very little for the 
rain, as we were now posted in the most comfortable quarters that 
had been enjoyed by any Texian troops since the commencement 
of the campaign. The gin-shed was large, dry, and commodious, 
and amply sufficient to shelter us from sun and rain ; and during 



56 ATTEMPT TO CAPTURE CANALES. 

the three weeks that we occupied it, we passed, perhaps, the most 
easy period of our term of service. 

We had been encamped in the old " cotton-gin shed" about two 
weelfs, when Lieut. MciMullen told us, one evening, about sun- 
down, that he wanted twenty men to saddle up for special and 
secret service. The horses were ready in a twinkling, and we were 
all eager to learn what the object of this night expedition could be. 
All was anxiety and expectation until about 8 o'clock, when we 
were ordered to move in silence. Not a word was spoken as we 
filed out of the yard, and took our position in the line. " Fall into 
double file — keep strict silence, and follow me," said our lieutenant, 
in a low voice, as he rode on in the advance. We followed with- 
out uttering a word. When we had rode on in this manner for 
about a mile, and were entirely clear of all the houses of the town, 
we were halted, and Lieut. McMullen explained to us the nature 
of the duty he wished us to perform. " It is reported, boys," 
said he, " that Canales, with some of his officers, are at this mo- 
ment at a fandango, which is held at a rancho, about six miles 
from town. My object is to capture them, if possible. To insure 
success, silence and caution are necessary. When we approach 
the rancho, it will be necessary for some of you to dismount, and 
hold the horses of the others while the rest surround the house. 
Commence counting there in front ! — every fifth man will be 
detailed to take care of the horses !" As soon as the names of 
the men upon whom this duty devolved were made known, we 
moved on again in silence. It was now necessary to procure a 
guide, as none of us knew the rancho at which the fandango was 
held, except by name. Fortunately, we picked up a Httle Mexi- 
can boy on the road, who agreed to be our pilot for the considera- 
tion of one dollar, paid in hand. The money was given to him, 
and he jumped up behind one of the men, to direct us in the 
route we wished to pursue. 

Splashing onv^'ard through mud and water, for five miles far- 
ther, we came in sight of the lights of the rancho. The boy here 
requested to be put down, as he did not wish his people to know 
that he had guided their enemies upon them. The little fellow 
slipped off in the darkness of the night, and we hastened on to the 
place of the merry-making. 

The scene which presented itself as we approached was unique 
and beautiful. The dance was held in the open air; and the 
bright fires kindled at different points, the candles and torches 
moving to and fro, the animated groups of revellers clustered on 
every side, the white robes of the girls prettily contrasting in the 
fire-fight with the dusky apparel of their partners ; while gay 



A SURPRISE. 57 

forms, replete with life and motion, bounded in the lively dance, 
or floated in the graceful waltz, in sweet accord with the spirit- 
stirring strains of music which the night-breeze wafted to our ears 
— all made a scene that was, at the distance we viewed it, beauti- 
ful indeed. 

" Halt ! — dismount !— creep up cautiously, men, and surround 
the house — and when I call you, come up quickly and firmly at 
the charge." McMulien loosened his pistols in his belt as he 
gave this command, and strolled quite carelessly into the midst of 
the astonished dancers. Our places were quickly taken, and be- 
fore the revellers dreamed of danger, they found their scene of 
festivity suddenly surrounded with a ring of Texian rifles. Never 
was a scene of rejoicing more quickly turned into one of dismay 
and confusion. The women shrieked and fluttered about like a 
flock of frightened doves upon the sudden appearance of a hawk ; 
the men shouted, in alarm, "The Americans are upon us !" and 
bolted right and left, to make their escape, but on all sides they 
were met by the muzzle of a gun, and a gruff voice saying, 
" Stand back, or I'll shoot you down." The party was completely 
entrapped ; and finding no chance to escape, now gathered around 
an old drunken fellow who was dancing in their midst, singing as 
he danced, and occasionally crying out, " We are poor honest 
people — what have we to fear from our enemies." While this 
scene was being enacted out of doors, McMulien was busily 
engaged in the house, turning over tables, looking under beds, 
and examining carefully every nook and corner that could possibly 
conceal a fugitive. None were found, however, and after scan- 
ning closely the members of the party out doors, we were forced 
to conclude that either our information was false, or that Canales 
and his friends had left the fandango before we arrived. The first 
was the most reasonable presumption. We asked no questions, 
for we did not expect a truthful answer. 

The party, therefore, could only guess the cause of our unex- 
pected visit, until Lieut. McMulien told them that he was passing the 
rancho with his men, when the sound of music made us stop to see 
how they were enjoying themselves. They appeared perfectly 
satisfied with the explanation, and insisted that we should join the 
dance, and partake of the refreshments. Two or three of the best 
dancers in our squad laid aside their guns, and picking out the pret- 
tiest girls for their partners, took their places in the set ; the rest 
of us looked on, with our rifles in our hands. We had seen some 
pretty tall dancing in our time, but we think the feats we witnessed 
that night, were a little ahead of any thing in that fine we ever 
saw before. The men had not had an opportunity of enjoying 
themselves by tripping on the "light fantastic toe" for some time 



58 THE FESTIVAL OF ST. JUAN. 

past, and on this occasion they determined, as they said, to ^^ spread 
themselves.''' The step of every negro dance that was ever known, 
was called into requisition and admirably executed. They per- 
formed the ''double shuffle'' the " Virginny break-down,'" the 
''Kentucky heeltap'' the "pigeon whig," the " back balance lick,'* 
the "Arkansas hoe-down," with unbounded applause and irresistible 
effect. We laughed heartily at their grotesque figures and comi- 
cal movements, and the Mexicans were perfectly enraptured with 
their activity and skill. The rogues stepped about like lions after 
the dance was finished, and appeared to enjoy the admiration they 
had excited amazingly. The Mexican girls were so much capti- 
vated that they entirely slighted their old lovers, and were quarrel- 
ling with one another as to who next should dance with " los buenos 
Americanos." 

"Come, boys," said McMuUen, after two or three more dances 
were over, " this is enough fun for one night. Mount ! and return 
to quarters." So taking one glass of Muscat more all round, we 
bade the party " adios," and hied merrily homeward, regretting 
that our information in regard to Canales had proved untrue, but 
not sorry that we had been induced to hunt for him at a " fan- 
dango." 

The festa-day of St. Juan was ushered in by a bright sun and a 
blue sky. The prayers of the Mexican gallants must certainly have 
induced the good saint to intercede with the " clerk of the weather" 
for one fair day in the midst of the rainy season. Whatever may 
have been the cause, it was certainly the most beautiful day we had 
been blessed with for some time past. The manner in which the 
day is celebrated in Mexico, is most singular and strange. St. Juan 
must have been the patron saint of horsemen, or a kind of protec- 
tor of cavalry, for on this day no footman is allowed to promenade 
the streets. Men and boys of all ages, sizes, and conditions are 
mounted on the best and most gayly caparisoned steeds they can 
procure, and parade the streets in holiday attire. Whooping and 
yeUing like Indians, they dash through the streets in large parties, 
charging upon and riding down every thing that impedes their pro- 
gress. Single horsemen sometimes meet in full career, and as it 
is disgraceful to give the road on such occasions, they ride directly 
upon one another, and the consequence is, that the weakest horse 
or the most unskilful rider is dashed to the ground, while the victor 
rides on in triumph, rewarded for his gallantry and skill by bright 
smiles from the balconies above. Occasionally large rival parties 
meet in the narrow streets, and then a scene of wild confusion 
ensues. Like madmen, they yell and rush together ; and when 
the horses are not overthrown by the shock, they grasp each 
other by the neck or waist, and attempt to drag their antago- 



THE FESTIVAL OF ST. JUAN. 59 

nist from the saddle to the ground. Wo to the awkward or un- 
skilful rider who places his foot in the stirrup on the festival of 
St. Juan ! 

Well knowing the manner in which the Mexicans observed this 
day, we determined to have our share of the fun. So carefully- 
grooming our horses early in the morning, plaiting their manes, 
and expending upon their appearance all the finery we could mus- 
ter, we mounted, and rode in a body to the main plaza. The exer- 
cises of the day were much interrupted by the plaza being occu- 
pied by our artillery, and the streets barricaded by piles of stones, 
but cramped as we were in our movements, we determined with 
the Mexicans to make the most of the occasion. By 10 o'clock, 
the streets were filled with mounted Mexicans, whooping and 
charging upon each other. Gradually they all formed into one great 
party, and rode by us in a bantering style. We were fewer in 
number, but possessed an immense advantage over them in the 
size, weight, strength, and speed of our horses. Thinking that 
we did not accept or understand their first challenge, they formed 
to charge upon us. We were clustered in the mouth of one of 
the main streets that led to the plaza, and as we found them rushing 
down like a whirlwind upon our ranks, we suddenly opened to the 
right and left, and allowed the whole body to pass to the rear. 
With a jeer of triumph they passed by, when we wheeled like light- 
ning on their rear, and using freely our spurs, charged the whole 
body at full speed. The weight of twenty large American horses is 
enough to overthrow all the ponies in Mexico, and as we had no 
arms to carry, our whole attention was devoted to the management 
of our horses. We rode right full upon them, and at the first 
shock more than twenty men and horses were rolling in the dust, 
and our triumph was achieved, for the rest of the party scattered 
in every direction, up alleys and into yards, in short, perfectly 
satisfied that " los cavallos Americanos son mucho buenos, y mucho 
grandes.^^ It was our turn now to ride in triumph up and down 
the streets, bowing to the senoras, and kissing our hands to the 
senoritas, who lined the streets and windows, and who returned 
our salutations most graciously. The Mexican gallants followed 
after us, but kept at a most respectful distance. At length, one 
of them who spoke a little English rode up, and inquired if we 
would like to engage in a " chicken race.''^ We expressed our 
willingness to do so, and two or three of them dashed off to pro- 
cure a chicken. The conditions of the race were these — the 
chicken was to be given to some man mounted on a good horse ; 
the rest of the party, both Mexicans and Americans, were to re- 
main in the plaza, while the man was to have about a hundred 
yards start ; at a given signal he was to run, by a designated course 



60 THE CHICKEN RACE. 

which led about two miles round town, to our camp. If he reached 
camp in safety, the chicken was his prize ; but if he were inter- 
cepted, or overtaken by any of the Mexicans who were gomg to 
take short cuts through the town for the purpose, and the bird 
taken away from him, why then he was to be laughed at, and suf- 
fer the mortification of defeat. A wild young Texian, by the name 
of Clinton Dewit, volunteered to bear the chicken to camp ; and 
seizing the bird by the legs, dashed off at a break-neck pace. 
After he had got a fair start, about one-half of the Mexicans rushed 
after him, yelling like a legion of devils ; the remainder ran by a 
shorter route to intercept him at different points of the road. We 
galloped out of town to see the sport. They had purposely chosen 
a road for him to follow, that was covered with loose rocks, and full 
of holes, in hopes that his horse would either stumble over the 
one, or fall into the other. But "Clint Dewit" was too good a 
horseman to suffer either of these mishaps, and picked his course 
over the uneven ground as coolly as if he were gallanting a lady to 
church. The speed of his horse was so much greater than that 
of his pursuers, that he was soon able to leave them far behind ; 
but those who had run across and got before him, annoyed him 
exceedingly, so that he was frequently obhged to ride right over 
them, (which he always did when he had a chance,) or task 
his horse's powers to the utmost to ride around and avoid them. 
When he had nearly reached the camp, a big, stout fellow, mounted 
on a strong horse, rushed out from behind a house which he was 
obliged to pass, and grasped the prize ; and so eager was he to 
secure the chicken, that he momentarily released his hold of the 
bridle, while both horses were dashing along at full speed. " Chnt" 
immediately perceived his advantage, and grappling him by the 
throat, suddenly reined his horse up. The consequence was, that 
the greaser's horse passed from under him, and left the rider in 
Clint's grasp. Dashing him to the ground, the young Texian 
clutched the prize, and raising a yell of triumph, bore it easily to 
the camp. 

Another was brought out, and another chase succeeded, termi- 
nating like the first. Another, and another, and still with the 
same success. Until at last, we found ourselves pretty well sup- 
plied with stock in the poultry fine, and the Mexicanos ruefully 
acknowledged that there were " no mas Gallenas in Reynoso,''— 
no more chickens in Reynoso. 

Our time in this place was spent pleasantly enough, for we had 
little or nothing to do, and when the rainy season was over, we 
occupied ourselves with hunting, horse-racing, and every other 
kind of sport that our ingenuity could devise. _ 

The morning of the 4th of July found us busily employed m 



THE FOURTH OF JULY. 61 

preparations to celebrate the day with suitable rejoicing. Every 
stray pig, or chicken that ventured to show himself in our yard 
that day, was unfortunately despatched — unfortunately, I say, since 
everybody said they came to their death by accident ; for, as the 
boys said, " if the poor things would run in the v^ay just as they 
were going to shoot off their guns in honour of the 4th, of course 
they could not help it, if they were killed.^* And then just to 
prevent them from spoiling^ they were put on the fire. 

Two large horse-buckets of whisky was procured, and a loaf 
of white sugar grated into it, with the due allowance of water. But 
to describe the scene of feasting, drinking, and revelry which en- 
sued, is beyond the power of our pen. Yet we would not have it 
for a moment supposed, that we were unable to tell what happened 
after dinner, because . 

Suffice it, that the dinner went off as all other dinners go off, 
with infinite satisfaction to everybody that enjoyed it. The wine 
— the whisky we mean — was capital, and circulated freely, and 
everybody was in such admirable spirits, and such excellent good 
humour with everybody else, and the toasts that were given were 
received with such prolonged, vociferous, and tumultuous applause, 
that Col. Wilson, although nearly half a mile distant, was sud- 
denly awakened from his siesta by the noise ; and despatched a 
file of men to find out if the Ranger's camp had been unexpect- 
edly attacked by a Mexican force, or " what was the meaning of 
that disturbance, anyhow." 

The men were furnished with several " horns'*^ out of the " big 
bucket," and sent back to Col. Wilson, "with the compliments 
of the Rangers," and the polite request, " that he would join us 
in a drink." The message was faithfully carried, and the colonel 
came up himself. But when he arrived and found no officer 
about, (for McMullen was not present,) and by looking over the 
fence, saw the men were ripe for any thing, he prudently con- 
cluded not to pay us a visit. He was perceived, however, and 
one of the most '-^ far- gone''' of the party reeled to his feet, and 
proposed as a toast, " the health of Col. Wilson ;" and three of 
the most vociferous cheers that ever rose upon the air, burst from 
the group around. The old gentleman understood the joke, and 
hurried off to his quarters, so that we were allowed to enjoy our- 
selves for the remainder of the evening as we pleased. 

Not many days had elapsed after this jollification, when we were 
ordered to pursue a party of robbers, who had been committing 
depredations in the neighbourhood. We relished not overmuch 
the service ; as we cared very little how much the Mexicans 
preyed upon each other, and like the woman, when she saw her 
husband in conflict with a bear, were perfectly indifferent as to 

6 



62 PURSUIT OF ROBBERS. 

which party whipped. But our orders were positive, and we 
prepared to execute them faithfully. An old Mexican, who had 
been attacked by these brigands the night before, was horribly 
wounded and mutilated. One of his hands was nearly severed 
from his body, and his face gashed up, while his nose was entirely 
cut off. In this mutilated condition, he managed to effect his 
escape in the night, and brought the news of these outrages to 
Reynoso. After his wounds had been dressed, he volunteered to 
become our guide, and conducted us to the robbers' encampment, 
which was about ten miles from town, on the Matamoras road. 
Pointing out the tree to which he had been tied, he gave us a 
detailed account of the cruelties which had been practised upon 
him, and described the agonies he had suffered. We found every 
thing, in the now deserted camp, just as he had related it to us. 
The robbers, however, had fled. Taking their trail, we followed 
it briskly for five or six miles, when we suddenly lost it; upon 
retracing our steps for a few hundred yards, we discovered that 
they had — as if fearful of pursuit, and resolving to baffle it — sepa- 
rated and diverged in all directions, so that it would be impossible 
to follow their trail. 

Our party was now divided, and ordered to scour the chaparral 
on both sides of the road in every direction ; the order was 
promptly obeyed, and the country minutely examined for miles 
around. But no further clue of the rascals could be discovered, 
and finding all attempts to do so fruitless, the party again assem- 
bled at the diverging point. 

Scarcely had we done so, when a large party was seen coming 
over a hill, some distance in the advance. Hastily concealing 
ourselves for an ambuscade, McMullen galloped on towards them, 
to reconnoitre, and attempt to draw them into the snare. He had 
not been gone long, when the heavy tramp of a number of horses 
was heard upon the road, and our lieutenant hastened back to tell 
us that it was the rest of the company coming up from Matamoras. 
Joyfully we came out to meet them, and amid mutual inquiries 
after healths, and hearty greetings, rode merrily back to Reynoso. 

The most pleasant news that our companions brought up from 
Matamoras, was the glad tidings, that we were ordered up to Co- 
margo, and were to move immediately. We were all delighted 
to hear this, for although the life we had passed in Reynoso was 
pleasant enough, we were right willing to exchange it for the stir- 
ring scenes of active, and more hazardous service. Early on the 
morning of the 9th of July, the bugle sounded the advance, and 
we bid the town of Reynoso farewell for ever. 

A steamboat, with troops and army stores, was already on her 
way up the Rio Grande to Comargo; the 7lh regiment of in- 



BILL 



63 



fantry, with a detachment of artillery under Captain Holmes, was 
marching to the same point by land, and our company was ordered 
to act as the advance guard. The incidents of the march are 
unworthy of relation, for most of the distance was accomphshed ia 
early morning and late evening; as the heat was too great for 
the infantry to march at mid-day. 

We could not but pity the poor fellows as they toiled through 
the mud and water which were sometimes nearly waist deep, for 
they seemed nearly ready to sink with fatigue. The road was 
exceedingly bad, and the sun excessively hot, and when the poor 
footmen would reach their camp at night, they would drop upon 
the ground, as if completely worn out and exhausted. 

Our first camping place was at the town of " old Reynoso," it 
being the former town site, but the houses having been once 
washed avi^ay by an overflow of the Rio Grande, the inhabitants 
removed to a high point lower down the stream, and built the pre- 
sent town of Reynoso. 

Early on the next morning we were again upon the road, and. 
after another hard day's ride, encamped in a pleasant place, ex- 
pecting the next day to reach Comargo. 

The fires gleamed brightly, and as we reclined upon our blan- 
kets around them, many a good tale was told of border life, and 
its wild excitements. Among the rest, the following has found 
its way into the columns of the " Picayune," and we give Mr. 
Kendall's version of it to the reader. n 

"McCulloch's Rangers, after a very hard day's ride, had bivou- 
acked one night last summer in a beautiful musquit grove between 
Reynoso Viejo and Comargo, a barranca protecting one side of the 
encampment from a surprise, while the steep banks of the Rio 
Grande served the same purpose on the other. The horses had 
all been watered, fed and curried, the first relief of the guard 
posted, and the Rangers, after drinking their coffee, were reclin- 
ing about on their blankets, spinning long yarns of their adven- 
tures, when Bill Dean told a story that wound up the entertain- 
ments of the evening, in theatrical parlance, and caused an out- 
break at the termination that came nigh stampeding the entire 
cavallada. Bill had joined McCulloch's men for the trip, and the 
recollection of his humorous tale about chasing the prairie fire a 
mile and a half, trying to cook his horse meat, secured him a most 
patient hearing. 

" Those who know any thing about the emigration of Germans 
into Texas, are well aware that thousands of them have made 
Indian Point, near Port Lavaca, a grand rendezvous before leaving 
for the interior settlement of New Braunfels, or the frontier sta- 
tion on the Pierdenales, the Llano, or the San Saba. Bill said 



64 

that he visited the Point last spring, when some five thousand 
Germans were encamped there, and was present at one of the 
most thrilJing and heart-rending scenes it had ever been his lot 
to witness. So far as his individual knowledge went, neither 
ancient nor modern history made mention of any case which 
might be considered as anywhere near parallel. 

"Among the emigrants, remarked Dean, was a young, pretty, 
red-cheeked girl, the pride of the party, who strolled out alone one 
day to gather wild flowers in the chaparral. Her ramblings car- 
ried her farther than she intended, and when she turned to retrace 
her steps she found that she was lost, poor thing — bewildered and 
perplexed in a tangled maze. In vain she strove to recollect the 
position and bearings of the camp she had left, all so joyous, a 
short hour before — reason had fled its throne. In an agony of 
doubt she ran to and fro in the chaparral, every step taking her 
farther from her friends, and darkness at length found her com- 
pletely exhausted, and crazed with thoughts of Indian peril and 
of starvation. Her sufferings during that dreadful night, continued 
Bill, you must fancy for yourselves — I shall not attempt to depict 
them. 

" With the early morning light she was again on her feet. She 
gazed in every direction, she ran in every direction ; but no sight 
of her friends gladdened her longing vision. While thus engaged 
she was discovered by a Mexican girl, whose father had a small 
rancho some five miles from the Point ; and now when succour 
was at hand the lost one fled at its approach. The Mexican girl 
called upon her in soothing terms ; but she heeded her not. The 
former then went to her father, hard by, and told him that some 
poor straggler from the camp of the strangers was in the bushes, 
and to all appearance lost and bereft of reason. The old man 
mounted his horse, went out in search, and soon came up with 
her ; but she fled at his approach as from one of the wild deni- 
zens of the prairie. The old man, in the kindness of his heart, 
with soft accents attempted to arrest her flight. She heeded 
him not. He knew that she must belong to the German camp, 
that she was lost, that she was crazed, and he determined to 
rescue her. Coiling the lariat or leather rope which hung to 
his saddle in his hand, he set off full speed after the bewildered 
and frightened fugitive, threw it gently over her head, and thus 
checked her flight. To call his daughter, thinking that she might 
better assist in soothing the poor girl, was his first impulse ; to 
proceed with her to the camp of her friends, and dehver her safely 
to those who must be but too anxious for her, was his second. 

"Great was the joy of her relatives, gladdened were the hearts 
of all who knew her, as she was brought into camp ; but soon 



65 

these emotions were changed to bitter sorrow, as one by one they 
discovered that the fairest flower among the emigrants was crazed. 
The sweet caresses of her mother and sisters slie answered only 
with a vacant stare ; the kind offices of those who crowded around 
were uncared for, unregarded. Her half-frantic lover, as he 
uttered words of comfort and endearment, was answered with a 
look that told plainly she recognised him not, that he was forgot- 
ten. Restoratives of every description were resorted to, but with- 
out effect. A favourite little dog, as he wagged his tail in joy, 
and endeavoured to lick the hands of his mistress in token of glad- 
ness at her return, was spurned as a stranger. Songs that she 
had loved in childhood fell in soft cadence upon her ear; yet she 
heeded them not. Presents from her lover — gifts that she had 
treasured in her heart of hearts — were passed over as idle toys. 
Her once bright eye, so full of intelligence and life, was now 
glazed, vacant and lustreless — her round, full face, once so radiant 
with intellect, was now a meaningless blank — and as her friends 
gazed upon her they wrung their hands in sorrow, and with sad 
misgivings that the reason of the poor girl was lost for ever. 

"At length, continued Bill, an elderly matron left the melan- 
choly group, and started off as if intent on making one more effort 
at restoring the crazed one to her senses. Presently she returned 
with a large plate of hot, smoking sour crout in her hand. 
Elbowing her way in among the sorrowing crowd, she presented 
the dish to the girl, and" — 

"And with what effect?" ejaculated a Ranger who had been 
listening all the while, and who now dashed away a tear which 
had gathered in his eye. " With what effect ?" 

"As-ton-ish-ing!" slowly ejaculated the wag. "It brought her 
right to; and the way she skived into that crout showed that 
twenty-four hours' hard exercise in the chaparral is a great help 

to the appetite !" " 

********** 

" It took at least twenty minutes to collect the scattered horses 
that broke their ropes when the laugh that succeeded this termina- 
tion to a sad story first burst upon them." 

By two o'clock on the next morning we were in our saddles 
once more and again upon the road. We were obliged to start 
thus early, and then move slowly to accommodate the infantry 
who accompanied us. About ten o'clock we came in sight of the 
town of Comargo, and found the steamer had already arrived. 



6* 



THE INDIAN SCOUT. 



CHAPTER VII 

The Indian Scout — The Comanches — News of their Depredations— Ordered 
to follow their Trail — The swimming of the Rio Grande — Attempt to rescue 
a Drowning Man— A Ranger playing 'Possum — The City of Rio Grande — 
Prickly Pears — The Indian Trail — The Night Alarm — Strange Concert — 
The Deserted Ranches — The Elephant in the Chaparral — Re-crossing of 
the River — Arrival at Mier — Bathing-Scene — The Battle Ground — Return 
to Comargo. 

Various are the excitements of a Ranger's life ; the wild foray, 
the secret scout, the ambuscade, the exciting skirmish, and the ha- 
zardous yet enticing expeditions in which we were so frequently 
engaged, lent a fascination, a romance to our existence, which those 
who drag out a commonplace life in a dull city can never dream of 
or enjoy. Our company had been encamped at Comargo, anxiously 
waiting for several days, when they received orders to march. 
Being deprived at the time by illness from accompanying our corps 
on this scout, we give the particulars and incidents of it as de- 
scribed by the pen of our friend, the author of "the Ranger's 
Song." 

About 1 o'clock on the morning of the 22d of July, a runner 
arrived in camp, with intelligence that a large body of Comanches, 
under their celebrated chief Buffalo Hump, had been scouring the 
country above us, on both sides of the Rio Grande, stealing horses, 
burning ranches, murdering the Mexican hombres, and carrying 
off the most beautiful of the Mexican Senoritas. Indeed, so bold 
had they become, that it was said they had actually ventured into 
Capt. Gillespie's camp of Rangers, situated aboat three miles from 
us on the opposite bank of the river, and stolen some of their best 
horses. An order immediately came down from head-quarters 
for Capt. McCulloch, who immediately went up and received 
instructions from Gen. Worth to take thirty of his best men, and 
give chase to the Indians forthwith, to have a parley with them, 
if possible, and not engage them without absolute necessity. Pre- 
parations were made to start before the dawn of day. A mo- 
ment's notice was all we wanted ; and in half an hour after the 
order was received the men were in the saddle, ready for any ser- 
vice and every contingency. 

"Fall in double file, men — march !" came from the head of the 
line, and on we rode in silence, scarcely any knowing whither. 
All we knew, and all we wanted to know, was, that there was a 
prospect for a fight ; and with hearts beating with excitement, in 



SWIMMING THE RIO GRANDE. 67 

the darkness of the night, we defiled out of the town of Comargo, 
and bent our course to the river bank. A lovely morning as 
ever dawned from a Mexican sky broke upon us as we reached 
the Rio Grande. Every tree, and bush, and blade of grass, co- 
vered with the night dew, and sparkling in the morning light, 
gave a freshness and charm to the scene which was enchanting. 
We were not detained long upon the river bank, before the deep 
cough of a steamboat was heard in the distance, and soon after we 
discovered the "Enterprise" coming slowly along, puffing her 
way against the swollen current. She stopped as we hailed her, 
and came to at the bank. Our saddles, blankets, and arms, were 
then put on board, and ferried across the river, leaving us to trans- 
port ourselves and horses as best we might, the steamer being too 
heavily freighted to carry us. 

Now came a stirring scene, in which every man had to bear his 
part. The river, like our own Mississippi at times, was swollen 
excessively, and was sweeping past at the rate of five miles an 
hour ; and, to add to the danger of the passage, there were great 
quantities of drift-wood running ; and if any of us or our horses 
should chance to become entangled in the branches of the trees 
that were floating down, a speedy passage not only down the 
stream, but to eternity, would have been the inevitable conse- 
quence. There we stood upon the banks, all in the undress uni- 
form of the Rangers, our horses rearing, snorting, and eyeing the 
troubled waters with evident alarm. 

"Now, boys, wade into it," said our captain, as he vaulted upon 
his chestnut horse, "Tom," and plunged into the stream. 

" Tom" was an old war-horse, and felt almost as much at home 
in the water as upon the land ; and right gallantly did he strike 
for the opposite shore. McCulloch cut a strange figure as he sat 
bolt-upright on " Tom," with his yellow hair waving in the wind, 
and the muddy waters breaking around his form. About a dozen 
horses followed him, but the rest, after swimming about fifty yards, 
declined the feat, and returned to the bank. The boys on the 
bank were not disposed to yield in silence to their misfortune, but 
venting their feelings in yells, and whoops, and imprecations, so 
loud, deep, and continuous, that one might have fancied that a 
select party of imps had just adjourned from a wine table below, 
and were engaged in yelhng for a prize, which was to be awarded 
to the noisiest. 

Long poles were in demand, and many a poor brute's nose suf- 
fered as he emerged, snorting, from the stream ; and notwith- 
standing all their exertions to prevent it, some few horses rushed 
by, and broke up the bank. They were soon caught, however, 
and the whole number again forced to take water. The second 



68 CITY OF RIO GRANDE. 

effort was more successful than the first, for nearly all were 
bridled, and forced to swim the stream with their riders. Five or 
six of the men remained on the bank to see that no renegade 
returned ; but their efforts were not required, as all had now 
gained the opposite bank in safety. The passage was not, how- 
ever, without an alarming incident. Young T , who had lately 

joined our company, was an expert swimmer, and attempted to 
cross the river alone. We watched his progress some time with 
anxiety. As he neared the centre of the stream, his strength 
appeared to fail him, and taking off his hat, which he had worn 
to protect his head from the sun, he waved it several times above 
his head, as a signal for help, and then slowly sank from sight. 
Those who had remained upon the bank rushed with desperation 
into an old " dug-out'' which lay a little distance up the stream, 
and commenced paddling with might and main to his assistance. 
Great God ! what were our feelings, to see a comrade and friend 
drowning before our eyes, and we not within reach to succour or 
save him! The clumsy old canoe seemed to move hke a snail 

across the waters. T rose and sank again ; and this time we 

could hear a faint cry for help. Like madmen, they strove to 
urge the canoe ahead ; with their naked bodies bared to the 
scorching sun, they toiled until the big drops of perspiration rolled 
down their panting sides. Again he rose and sank, and this time 
they were within reach of him ; and in trying to turn the canoe 
round, it floated broadside down the stream, in spite of all their 
efforts to prevent it. To describe their agony, and their exertions to 
bring her up again — for they had nothing but poles to paddle 
with — would be as unavailing as were their efforts ; they were 

just about to give up in hopeless despair, when young T raised 

a loud laugh, and struck out easily for the shore. He had been 
playing 'possum at our expense ; but to describe the severe re- 
primand which he got when we all reached the shore, in the 
shape of unvarnished and original cursing, would make a devil 
cross himself with fear. As soon, though, as the poor fellows 
had recovered from their fatigue, they all laughed as heartily 
as any at the ruse which had cost us so much mental pain, 
and readily forgave the trick which had caused them so much 
labour. 

After crossing the river, we halted for some time for the pur- 
pose of procuring a guide, at the city of Rio Grande, being on the 
east or Texas side of the river. The cit}'- — or rather the ground 
on which the city is hereafter to be built — belongs to an enter- 
prising young Texian by the name of Clay Davis, who acquired 
his right to the land by marrying a Mexican heiress, whose 
property consists in large tracts of wild land. The tract runs 



A RIDE IN THE CHAPARRAL. 69 

within a few miles of the mouth of the St. Juan, to some extent 
down the Rio Grande. It is the only point not subject to overflow 
anywhere near the head of navigation. The town site is a high 
bluff, only three miles from Comargo by land ; and, since the 
destruction of the latter place by the flood, bids fair to become one 
of the most important points for the Mexican trade on the whole 
Texian frontier. The land is very rich and fertile ; and, taking 
all its advantages into consideration, it is undoubtedly one of the 
most eligible points for a city that the valley of the Rio Grande 
can boast. 

At 4 o'clock in the afternoon, we started with our guide on the 
trail which led off from the rancho in a northerly direction. The 
sign was plainly visible, and that a large party of savages were 
banded together, on a marauding expedition, was evident enough, 
even to those among us most unpractised in wood craft. The 
guide, poor fellow, was extremely fearful, and took particular pains 
not to place himself too far in advance of the command. And 
right good cause had he to be so, for a more unmerciful set of de- 
mons, than the Comanches, never scoured the border-side. It is 
their custom never to take a man prisoner, and should one be so 
unfortunate as to fall into their hands, his fate is sealed for ever. 
No chance for escape is left him — death, immediate, terrible, and 
certain, is his inevitable doom. It was only with much persua- 
sion, and tempting offers of reward, that our guide could be pre- 
vailed upon, in the first place, to pilot us through the chaparral ; 
and when it is remembered that he was mounted on a miserable 
jaded mule, and was compelled to ride back alone to the rancho, 
running the risk of being cut off by the Indians at every step he 
took upon the homeward track, it is not to be wondered at, that he 
felt, and manifested extreme reluctance in undertaking this profit- 
able but perilous service. Onward we pushed, however, our cap- 
tain riding directly in his rear, and the whole command following 
as fast as possible in single file. 

The chaparral was so dense, that it was only with great diffi- 
culty we could force our way through, and at the same time fol- 
low the half-obliterated trail. Our lacerated and bleeding hands, 
faces and legs, gave us a scratching of what we would have to 
suffer before the termination of this scout. Sticking into our flesh, 
and torturing us most horribly, we bore beautiful specimens of that 
most prickly of all thorny plants, called by botanists the cactus, 
but better known to us as the omnipresent, and infernal prickly 
pear. How the half-clad savages ever rode through that country, 
with the rapidity they did, was always to us a wonder and a 
marvel. 

About nightfall, we pitched our camp upon the borders of a 



70 OUR BIVOUACK. 

beautiful murmuring stream, and after the fatigues of the day, 
congratulated ourselves upon the idea of passing a pleasant night 
in the wild woods. The fires were kindled, the horses staked out, 
and the guard posted ; it was really a relief after having been 
encamped for weeks in a dusty town, to spread our blankets once 
more upon the fresh green sward, and repose our weary limbs on 
this soft and dewy couch. The full-orbed moon was wending her 
way, hke some fair crystal chariot, across the cloudless heaven, 
and the " sentinel stars," paled by her light, shone fainter and 
fainter in the deep blue vault above, till sweet refreshing slumber 
shut out their blessed hght, and closing our heavy lids, we forgot 
in deep sleep the beauties of either earth or heaven. At mid- 
night, we were startled by one of the guard firing upon what he 
supposed to be an Indian prowling about the camp. Whether it 
really was so, or not, we could never certainly determine ; though 
the alarm served to increase our vigilance. Our horses were 
brought closer in, and every man slept within a few paces of his 
steed. We apprehended no danger from an attack, but we were 
fearful that our horses might be stampeded, or silently stolen from 
the lines by our crafty foe. For some time after the sentinel shot, 
divers strange and unusual noises were heard in the woods around, 
which we supposed to be Indian signals ; as this strange race 
always convey intelligence to one another, when on the war path, 
by means of these sounds. A most singular and wild concert 
they made that night ; there was hooting of owls, and screeching 
of wild cats, and yelping of wolves, growling of bears, screaming 
of panthers, and in short every bird of the air and beast of the 
forest seemed to have combined their musical talents to give us 
the benefit of their horrid voices. Little cared we for noises, by 
whomsoever made, so that our horses were safe. And after 
doubling the guard, we sank to rest again, promising ourselves, as 
soon as the morrow's light should give us an opportunity, to cul- 
tivate a closer acquaintance with our strange musicians. 

As soon as day dawned, the next morning, we prepared a hur- 
ried cup of coffee, and after munching our scanty allowance of 
hard bread and dried beef, set out on our journey. The signs of 
moccasoned feet were thick around our camp, but the feet that 
made the tracks, as our Mexican guide expressed it, were sacabo 
— which means, " not about." The poor guide, after being paid 
off here, took his leave of us, but not without many misgivings, 
and with all the speed his poor mule could muster, put back for 
the rancho. 

We pursued our way on the trail, which led us a weary march, 
over hill and valley, through thicket and prairie, occasionally 
wending our way to some high hill-top, when visions of beauty 



MEXICAN GRATITUDE. 71 

and grandeur would burst upon us, that were truly sublime. The 
noble river rolling far beneath, the hills clad in deep rich green, 
the thicket covered dells, the flower enameled plain, and in the 
background, the shadowy outline of the distant mountains ; all 
added to the magnificent landscapes which were so frequently 
spread before us. 

Our way now continued directly up the river, and as we passed 
the various ranchos, which lay upon the road, we found that they 
had all been deserted. We halted at noon at a large rancho, and 
although it was strongly barricaded, yet like all the rest, it was 
tenantless ; the Mexicans who lived there having fled across the 
river to escape from the savages. As we rode up, they ventured 
to show themselves on the opposite bank, and although we endea- 
voured to make them come across to us, yet no pantomimic en- 
treaties could prevail upon them to do so. We wanted informa- 
tion in regard to the Indians, so our first-lieutenant, John McMul- 
len, was sent with four or five men in an old canoe, which we 
found lying on the bank, across the river to hold a parley with 
them. Two or three of the Mexicans accompanied him back, 
and they gave us a most doleful account of the massacre and atro- 
cities the Indians had committed. They expressed themselves 
delighted that we had come to their aid, but forgot not, in the 
meanwhile, as a means of showing their gratitude, to make us 
pay as high as possible for every thing we wanted. An Ameri- 
can would have thrown open his doors, and freely given the con- 
tents of his larder, or his granaries, to men who had marched a 
weary way to come to his assistance and relief. Not so with the 
Mexican — he looks upon every stranger, whether friend or foe, 
as the legitimate subject of his extortion and spoliation, and allows 
no opportunity to pass by unimproved. On this occasion, they 
kindly consented to sell us eggs at sixty cents a dozen, and beef, 
corn, and other necessaries, at a like exorbitant price. After rest- 
ing our horses for a few hours, we learned the route they sup- 
posed the Indians had taken, and again get out in pursuit. 

Our difiiculties began anew. The trail led directly into the 
thickest of the chaparral, and through the thorny bushes we were 
obhged to go. The thicket was so dense that we frequently 
were compelled to dismount, and lead our horses through places 
where it was impossible for a mounted man to penetrate. Our 
clothes were literally torn ofl" us. Frequently the low hanging 
branches which obstructed our way, would nearly drag us from 
our saddles ; and before we emerged from the twilight gloom of 
that dense thicket, there was not a man among us, but who was 
firmly convinced that he had seen " the elephant in the chapar- 
raiy Following the trail, we at length arrived at the river, and 



72 MEXICANS AND INDIANS. 

great was our relief to have once more an unimpeded path to 
travel. Continuing our way along the bank, we soon arrived at 
a small rancho, which bore evident marks of the Indian's depre- 
dation. They had killed the cattle, driven off all the horses, and 
carried off with them some Mexican children, and a young girl, 
who was said to have been celebrated for her great beauty. The 
Mexicans generally, we speak of the character of the mass of the 
people, are certainly base cowards. Whenever the Indians ap- 
proach the ranches, the men run off, and hide themselves, leaving 
the women totally unprotected. As soon as they think all danger 
is over — they then return, and braggadocio-like, swear vengeance, 
threatening to exterminate the tribe ; and mounting their caballos, 
pretend to give chase, but taking good care not to come up with 
their foe. The Indians, well knowing their character, frequently 
lie in wait, on the occasion of these exhibitions of bravery, and 
reward them for their cowardice by cutting their throats. The 
Comanches are far superior to the class of piones or serfs in 
Mexico, in every particular. Upon one occasion, an Indian was sur- 
rounded by a large party, having his squaw and child with him — 
he was told to surrender — ^but repKed, that " the Comanches 
never surrendered in the defence of a woman'^ — giving them 
battle, he drove them back with his single arm, until the woman 
and child could escape ; deahng destruction on every side with 
his knife, until he was shot down, weltering in the blood of his 
enemies ! 

We found several of their arrows lying about, but could discover 
no clue to inform us of their immediate whereabouts. As it was 
growing late, McCulloch concluded to pitch his camp about two 
miles beyond this place, and we reached the spot just as the sun 
was sinking in the west. The place selected was directly on the 
river bank, and a Mexican corn-field furnished a convenient pen 
for our horses, during the night. The corn had been removed 
from the field, but there was plenty of good grass left, and our 
tired animals were turned in to graze at will upon the excellent 
pasture. A steep bank, about thirty feet high, formed one side of 
the enclosure, and the river the other — the two ends being enclosed 
by fences running from the bank to the water-side. Our place of 
encampment was on the table-land, on the bank above, where we 
could overlook the whole enclosure. Four sentinels were placed 
over the horses, while the camp itself was left entirely unguarded. 
Indeed, as we ourselves practised somewhat the Indian mode of 
campaigning, we never feared a surprise or night attack ; for, as 
we always slept with our arms by cur sides, we were always pre- 
pared to spring to our feet and be ready on the instant to repulse 
the foe, or rush forward to the attack. Our horses gave us our 



A BATHING SCENE. 73 

only trouble, and if we were certain that they were securely 
guarded, we cared not for the foe who might venture to assault us. 

The next day, we learned from some rancheros who had seen 
the hght of our fires on the night previous, and who had come over 
to visit us, by day-break in the morning, that the Indians had 
crossed, the river, some few miles above, early on the morning of 
the preceding day, and were supposed to be now lurking somewhere 
in the neighbourhood of Mier. In order to pursue them, we again 
were compelled to swim the river, which was not accomplished with- 
out a vast deal of trouble and fatigue. At length, after a repetition 
of some of the scenes we witnessed at the first crossing, we all 
passed over in safety, and shaped our course directly for the town 
of Mier. As we approached the place it presented a beautiful ap- 
pearance, with its snowy walls and turrets gleaming in the reflected 
light of the sun ; and its good citizens were not a httle surprised 
to find a company of los Texanos so unexpectedly at their doors. 

Just before entering the town, we had to ford a beautiful stream 
which danced merrily along, and rippled over its rocky bed, pure, 
cool, and as limpid as a mountain rivulet. As we rode up, still 
being concealed behind a high bank, a rare sight was presented 
to our view. Some fifty or sixty young Mexican girls were bath- 
ing in the lovely stream, making the air ring with their merry 
laughter, and the water foam and splash with their sportive agile 
movements. Occasionally, their unveiled charms were exposed to 
our gaze as we peeped cautiously over the high bank at the lovely 
nymphs, who continued their joyous sports, totally unconscious of 
our presence. Every form of maiden loveliness stood before us, from 
the girl of eighteen to the budding beauty of the laughing child. 
How long we might have gazed entranced upon this fair original 
scene, we cannot pretend to say ; for, unfortunately for us, one of the 
young girls happened to glance above, and descried a long hne of 
strange, bearded, and moustached faces peering earnestly over the 
bank at them. The sight we now witnessed afforded us the highest 
merriment. The alarm had been quickly given, and the girls, in 
confusion and dismay, paddling and splashing, quickly made for 
the shore, with screams and shrieks ; and scampering towards their 
garments, rebosas, mantillas, and gowns, picked up in all direc- 
tions, were put on in a hurry, and then running — such a foot-race 
for home, half-dressed as they were, made one of the most amusing 
and .laughable scenes that we ever saw. It was soon spread that 
a large American troop of horse had arrived, and the whole popu- 
lation swarmed out to see us. We rode into town, in double file, 
and proceeded directly to the alcalde's apartments, to make a re- 
quisition for meat and bread. 

The order was quickly complied with, and the desired articles 

7 



^^4 RETURN TO COMARGO. 

forthcoming ; for they knew not, as yet, whether we came as friends 
or foes, (as the place had not yet been garrisoned by our troops,) and 
the only way to make a Mexican act promptly, is to operate on his 
fears. Under the shadow of some beautiful shade-trees, which 
ornamented the streets of the town, we sought shelter from the 
scorching rays of the sun, and despatched our rations of sweet 
bread, fresh meat, and polonciaSy (Mexican sugar,) with an appe- 
tite sharpened by our previous exertions. Mier is a pretty town, 
and rejoices in the possession of a multitude of fair women ; indeed, 
we thought that it contained more beauty than any place we had 
yet visited. 

So much has been said of Mier by others, that we will not 
here attempt to describe its localities. We had among us many 
of the brave men who had participated in the engagement which 
rendered its name immortal on the page of Texian history ; and 
all the most notable points of the battle-ground were pointed out to 
us by Lieut. McMullen, who was in the fight, and who, as our 
readers already have seen, shared all the horrors of Mexican cap- 
tivity. Thus was our day spent in Mier, and it was with no little 
reluctance that we were compelled to leave so pleasant a spot. 
But a soldier's orders are his only law, and when our commander 
had learned that the Indians had struck off from this place towards 
their great hunting-grounds in the north-west, he concluded to dis- 
continue further the pursuit. Accordingly, our horses' heads 
were turned towards our old post, Comargo; and after another hard 
day's ride, and again swimming another river, the San Juan, we 
arrived safely on its banks, and were warmly welcomed to our 
quarters by our messmates and friends ; and as we sat around our 
suppers, which were cooking on the fires, we related to our anxious 
comrades the incidents of the scout. 

To those who are at all acquainted with the skilful stratagems 
used by the roving tribes of the prairies, to baffle and elude pur- 
suit, and the amazing rapidity with which they move when on a 
marauding expedition, no explanation need be given for the un- 
successful termination of our expedition. But if there be any not 
over-versed in such matters, and yet over-curious on the subject, we 
have only to say to such, go to Mexico, join a ranging company, 
start out in a hurry, almost without provisions, upon an Indian 
trail, swim three rivers, and follow a Comanche war-party for 
five days and nights, through the chaparral, and we will wager 
high that at the termination of the chase, you will be perfectly 
satisfied upon the subject, and will never be inquisitive again about 
the pleasures or result of an Indian scout. 



THE HOSPITAL OF THE SICK. 75, 



CHAPTER VIII. 

The Hospital of the Sick — Soldiers' Anecdotes — Orders for our March — 
Scout to China — The Sugar Rancho — The strange Guide — An extraordi- 
nary Vision — The March at Night — Rancho El Toro— The Arm- Chair 
Church — Preparations for a Fight — The false Alarm — Our Entrance into 
China — Retreat of Col. Seguin and his Men — The vain Pursuit. 

Having seen the termination of "The Indian Scout," which 
the writer was deprived of participating in, we will ask of the 
kind reader to go back with us from the time we were made an 
invalid until the next expedition of our company, in order to bring 
up our " Journal notes." 

We lay sick then in the hospital tent of the 5th infantry, to 
which we had been removed by the kindness of our friends ; and 
stretched out on a pallet among the sick soldiers of that regi- 
ment, we suffered for some days from the excruciating disease of 
the climate. There is no place like the couch of the sick for 
reflection and meditation. There, man is made to feel his help- 
lessness and his dependency upon the will of a Supreme Being ; 
there, feeling the uncertainty of life, his soul softens and relents 
towards his fellow man ; the stern purpose, or fell design, relaxes in 
determination ; and he who, in heakh the day before, would have 
stopped at nothing, is then made as weak and helpless as a child. 
The hospital of the sick, especially that of the soldier, is human 
nature undisguised. It is the mirror of character, into which one 
may look and read at will. Scenes of every nature are reflected 
there, from the gayest to the most mournful. And, oh ! most sad 
and sorrowful is it, melancholy, and most painful of all scenes, to 
see a young soldier in the bloom and hey-day of life, when his 
fond anticipations and dearest prospects glow brightest with the 
fire of enthusiasm, lying on the couch of death, with no kind 
friend or relative near to speak a soothing word of consolation, or 
to remember him to those he loved, or bear to them his dying wish, 
as his last breath vanishes upon the atmosphere of a foreign land, 
and sinking into the arms of death, not even to be mentioned 
or remembered for the service he had rendered, or known to the 
world as one who had fought in the defence of his country's cause. 
These thoughts naturally arose in our mind as we saw, in our 
[presence, a poor fellow carried out to be buried, who had fought 
jbravely at the late battles, and was now to be entombed without a 
tear, or hardly a regret, to follow him to his grave, save that which 
the volley of muskets echoed as the fresh green earth was piled 
over his corpse. 



76 

It was on the afternoon of the 24th of July, when the sun was 
slov\4y sinking to its " nightly bourne," and shedding upon the 
camp-scene of snow-white tents its soft mellow rays, which 
breathe a " transient farewell," that we had awaked from a quiet 
slumber, and became attracted by the colloquy of two of the sick 
men, who were evidently speaking of the young man who had 
but lately died. 

" Well, Barney was the pride of his company — a jewel of a 
boy ; Heaven rest his sowl," said one, as he drew himself up on 
his elbow. " Pass the pipe, Larry, darlint," said he, drawing 
a long sigh and stretching out his hand to his companion, who 
lay on the next pallet, and then, taking a few whiffs, continued : 
" Sure that was the boy that had the heart in 'im. It was the 
night after the battle of the — what's this ye call it ? — ' Risecar de 
Palmy,' that we were carrying the wounded Mexicans to the 
hospital in the rear, when a dhrop of wather was worth a pair of 
Mexicans, that self-same time — bad luck to 'em — and a poor divil 
that had the leg off him, was howlin murther for a dhrink, when 
up steps poor Barney — may the Holy Virgin kape him — and 
taking the canteen from his neck, held it to the poor divil's mouth 
till he got the fill of it ; and could yees 'av seen the rollin' of his 
ej^es, as he looked poor Barney in the face to thank him, say- 
ing, ' Mi Tampico,' it would 'av made ye blink yer weepers." 

" Wasn't it Barney that helped to find Gen. Arista's chest 
of money ?" said Larry. 

"Sure it wasn't anybody else," rephed his companion; " and 
iv it had a been me, be gor, I niver would a turned it in at all." 

" Tut, man," said Larry, " its only talking ye are now ; for 
wasn't the order out to turn in every thing down to a brass but- 
ton ? and didn't I have to give up me illegant pistols and silver 
spurs ? Truth, then, how could yees kape from it ?" 

" How could I kape from it ?" said his companion. " Sure, then, 
it's givin' the box a dacent burial I would, and divil a bit would 
I iver gone near it 'til I got me discharge, and wouldn't that be 
keeping from it ?" The convalescent here joined in the laugh at 
Paddy's wit. 

" 'Tare an ouns," said Larry, " it was mighty mean of 'em 
any how to take away from us the little plunder we'd picked up 
after such hard fightin'. Wouldn't it 'av been more dacent to 
have divided it betwixt uz ?" 

" Thrue for you, Larry," said Pat, "and sorry I am I didn't 
enlist for the seas, instead of the land sarvice ; for there, I am 
tould, they divides the plunder betwixt 'em all, whiniver they takes 
a prize, and, be gor, it's no more than fair any how. But I hear 
say it's the reconciliation pohcy of the government. ' Thunder 



soldiers' anecdotes. 77 

an' turf,' who iver heard of reconciliation, except with a purty 
girl ye had fallen out with ?" 

Saturday, 25th. Very hot ; improving slowly, but very weak ; 
amused all the morning listening to an Irish soldier, who was 
relating anecdotes of the last battle, which we give literally to the 
reader. 

" The violent shot of the enemy," as Pat expressed it, " when 
the 5th came up to support the charge of the dragoons, made the 
presperation come on us all ; but wasn't it a howl of madre de 
dios the divils set up at the ' God-damn-me* s^^ as they called us 
when we scared them out of the chaparral ! Be Heavens, the 
British never beat that. Just then it was that our colonel (Mcin- 
tosh) got the bayonet in him, when a ball tickled the ear of Capt. 
Scott, and the ' old coon' turns round, and sez he, * That bullet 
never was made for Martin Scott,' and divil a bit was he hurt at 
all." 

" Do you mind the day, Larry," continued Pat, " that we went 
out in the morning to bring in the wounded, iv they wasn't all 
deiad ?" 

" Troth I do," said Larry. 

" Sure it was a sorry looking place," continued Pat, " and 
* Holy Mother,' I kept saying me prayers all the while, for fear 
some on 'em would come to life and shoot me unawares. Och, 
blazes ! but that was the worst ranchero I iver saw." 

" Who was that ?" said one. 

" Why, when Larry and I was about the middle of the dead 
divils, I picks up a canteen full of some liquor ; it wasn't whisky, 
and the divil knows what it was ; but it had the spirit in it, and 
barrin the smell, was mighty good tasted." 

" Muscal," said some one. 

" Ay, perhaps that was it. Well, after tipping the muzzle to 
me Hps, I hands it over to Larry, when I sees one of the dead 
divils open his eyes at me ! ' Och, blood and murther, sure, 
Larry,' sez I, ' here's one of the dead Mex'ans looking straight 
at us with his two eyes !' And with that ' Larry' drops the can- 
teen, and pints his bayonet right at him, when the ranchero gets 
up with one iv our dragoon jackets on him, and all around him 
was a heap of plunder, that the villain had stolen from the dead. 
So with the plunder we takes him to camp, and turns him and the 
plunder over to the ' officer of the day ;' and may I never forgive 
meself for not blowin' his brains out for the scare he gave me ; 
for I took the ager at the time, and, by me sowl, I haven't got 
{over it yit, and I beheve it's the cause I'm here now." 
I Sunday, 26th. Very pleasant. Thanks to the kind-hearted 
and gentlemanly surgeon of the 5th infantry, Dr. James R. Con- 

7* 



7B THE STRANGE GUIDE. 

rad, we were now convalescent, though still feeble. The doctor 
would frequently sit hours by our pallet, keeping us amused with 
his dry stories, and we must be permitted here to return him our 
grateful acknowledgments. In the afternoon, we dressed ourself 
and left the hospital for the more agreeable quarters of our friend 
Lieut. D., where we spent a very pleasant evening with a select 
party, and, retiring to our friend's cot while the band was playing 
a soft melting air, we gradually sunk into a sweet repose. The 
next day was very hot ; but we found ourself improving very fast, 
and reading the *' Three Guardsmen" to occupy our time, we felt 
again all the wild excitement of the " hero," and were anxious 
once more to be like him in the saddle, engaged in active service. 
On the 30th, we joined our company and returned to camp 
duties. 

On the first of August, to our great joy, we received secret 
orders to march. All now was great excitement. Many of our 
horses were to be shod, and it was not without great difficulty that 
we could obtain iron enough for the purpose. The different 
messes were busily occupied cleaning their arms, moulding bul- 
lets, and parching coffee for the scout. 

On the morning of the third, at 8, a. m., the command was 
ready and departed, leaving a rear-guard of some ten or twelve to 
follow after, among whom were Mr. Kendall and ourself. At 10, 
A. M., we started, having been detained for special purposes ; one 
of which was to throw the spies off the scent; and taking a W. S. 
W. course we stopped at the Sugar Rancho, where we found 
Duncan's artillery encamped. After spending a few moments 
here with our friends, we rode on. The sky looked threatening, 
and soon after a tremendous shower of rain came up — in the midst 
of which a horseman was seen pursuing us, at full speed, and 
coming up, he asked us as he rode by, if our name was " Reid." 
Upon replying to him in the affirmative, he dashed on, much to 
our surprise, telling us to wait a moment at the next rancho. On 
our arrival at the hut, we saw him changing his clothes, and then 
taking a fresh horse, rode up wiih us, and putting a note into our 
hand from Capt. Duncan, said he would show us the camp of 
Capt. McCulloch, as he knew that he had encamped some place in 
the hills. His manner was much hurried and excited, and seemed 
so strange that we first looked suspiciously on him. He took the 
lead, and after winding around some deep gullies and hills for 
about three miles, he changed his course to a high ridge, and 
bade us follow. We approached cautiously in double file until we 
gained its top, where we found the camp of our boys. It was 
raining so hard at the time that we could not learn clearly the 
purport of the note. It now appeared that the man, whose name 



OBJECT OF THE SCOUT. 79 

was Baker, was sent by Capt. Duncan, to act as guide for us, 
or serve us in any way, with instructions to return in two or 
three days. Capt. McCuIloch then held a conference with him, 
and concluded to dispense with his services. Baker was from 
Tennessee, and had hved many years in Mexico, and knew 
the country well, having been engaged in trading with the 
Mexicans. 

It soon after cleared up, though we got drenched to the skin. 
The boys had nooned it here, and we were too late for coffee, but 
the delicious fumes of broiled bacon added to our appetite, and 
with a piece of it on a hard biscuit we made a hearty meal. That 
day we travelled twenty-five miles, and encamped for the night in 
a thick wood, about one hundred yards from the banks of the river 
San Juan. As the order was given to halt and dismount, the boys 
made a rush for the best trees to camp under. The guard was 
set, fires were kindled, water was brought, and the jolly and hardy 
Rangers were sitting around talking over the object of the expe- 
dition and spinning yarns, while the supper was cooking on the 
fire. We may as well here state that the object of the expedition 
was two-fold ; first to ascertain the condition of the China road, 
and its practicability for artillery, it being the most direct route 
to Monterey, and secondly to capture Col. Seguin and his men, 
whom we learned were stationed there, numbering about one hun- 
dred and forty. Our saddles served that night for heading, as the 
Texians call a pillow, and our blankets for our bed. After supper, 
the first watch was relieved, and the second posted, save which, 
all the camp was soon wrapped in sleep. 

The morning of the fourth was cloudy. Sleeping in wet clothes 
and then having to stand guard from 2, a. m., till daylight, is not 
very pleasant ; but still, being tinged with adventure, the unplea- 
sant duty was in a degree relieved by its excitement, and the cau- 
tion necessary to be observed at this particular period of the watch, 
as it is the time always selected by the Indians, and generally by 
the Mexicans for an attack. Day broke, however, without the 
occurrence of any incident, and we had barely time to swallow 
our httle breakfast, before the order " Saddle up, men," rang 
through the encampment. We rode on all day, travelling in a 
very fast walk ; and there was much fun and merry glee, through- 
out the long line of double file as we journeyed on. At .5, p. m., we 
encamped near the road side, to rest and graze our horses, as well 
as to partake ourselves of such refreshment as our wallets af- 
forded. It was intensely hot, and the camp-ground, composed of 
but a few chaparral bushes, aflbrding us but little or no shade, we 
spread our saddle blankets over their tops to keep us sheltered 
from the sun. Under one of these bushes might have been seen 



80 AN EXTRAORDINARY VISION. 

our captain, poring over a map, as he lay on the ground resting on 
his elbow, and, tracing with his finger the lines there laid down, 
seemed to be intent upon some scheme, which he was revolving 
in his own brain. Notwithstanding the famiharity of the men 
with our commander, for they most usually called him " Ben,'* 
yet on such occasions there were but few who dared to approach 
him. Rising from the ground, and slowly folding up the map, 
which he placed in his hat, for the most of us were in our shirt 
sleeves, he approached his favourite horse, and patting him on the 
neck, as he slipped the bridle into his mouth, gave the order, 
" Saddle up." We doubt whether there is any cavalry corps in 
the world that can saddle and bridle a horse quicker than the 
" Texas Rangers." The order was hardly given, when the ma- 
jority of the men were in the saddle, and the few that were de- 
tained behind, were kept by some unruly pack mule. 

Our road now lay along a beautiful skirt of country, and the air 
became cool by the departure of the fiery rays of the sun. Far in 
the distance could be seen the dim outhne of the bluish mountains, 
like some fleecy cloud. The sun was setting with unusual gran- 
deur behind the distant mountains, which seemed to rest upon the 
western horizon, gilding the encircling view with all the magnifi- 
cence and splendour of its golden rays. Just then we were 
attracted by a most extraordinary vision in the heavens, and so 
perfect was its every outline as to fix general attention. The 
scene presented a battlement in the clouds, over which there was 
a large arch, and beneath, was a soldier with his musket at a 
charge, standing on a draw-bridge. The picture was as per- 
fect as if it had been drawn by the pencil of an artist, and caused 
among the superstitious many ominous forebodings of what was to 
come. As the last lingering roseate hue faded from the sky, 
orders came from the advance to form into single file, and to ob- 
serve complete silence ; and for those leading mules to fall back to 
the rear. Our movements, thus far, had been made with the 
greatest caution and secrecy, and a fight was now thought to be 
certain. The merry joke and wild laugh of our companions were 
no longer heard, and faces which before looked without care, then 
became grave and thoughtful. Not a murmur was heard through- 
out the long rank of single file of fifty-six men. It was a most 
lovely night; the silver goddess of the heavens was smiling 
sweetly in all her transcendent beauty ; the bright arms glis- 
tened in the moonlight, and the costume of our men was as wild 
as their appearance was ferocious. 

At 11, p. M., we passed a large rancho, about two miles long, 
called " Rancho el Toro," in the midst of which, a httle off from 
the road, there stood an unroofed chapel, in the shape of a large 



PREPARATIONS FOR THE ATTACK. 81 

arm chair — with a high oval arch for its back, while the walls on 
each side represented the arms. A seat was placed in the rear 
for the priest, which was approached by a flight of steps, and 
around the walls forming the arms, were little shelves, on which 
stood sundry ornaments ; the front of the church, if it may be 
called one, being entirely open. Behind the arch stood a scaffold 
on which was erected two or three small bells. As well as we 
could see, by moonlight, the chapel had the appearance of having 
been very lately occupied. As we passed the rancho, all was as 
still as death, and not a soul was to be seen except an occasional 
head or two, peeping forth for a moment from some half-closed 
window. Turning round the pass of a high hill, we shortly after 
descended a deep ravine, and crossing a boggy stream permitted 
our horses to drink, when we gained the opposite bank. 

At about midnight, when within less than a quarter of a mile 
from the town of China, a halt was called, and a detachment of 
twenty men, under the command of our second-lieutenant, Allen, 
was order to proceed with the pack mules, off to the right of the 
road, some fifty yards, and station a guard, with instructions to 
stop all persons entering or going towards the town, allowing those 
going from it to pass on, — and at the dawn of day to ride into the 
town and join the main force, when it was thought the attack 
would commence. The main body then proceeded on, taking a 
circuit ofTto the left, so as to get round to the rear of the town, on 
the Monterey road. It happened to fall to our lot to be detailed 
with the rear-guard. We had hardly dismounted in the chapar- 
ral bushes, and tied our mules, before we took a prisoner, who 
said that he was out, looking for some horses. While interrogating 
the prisoner, and before the guard was posted, one of our men, 
hearing the clang of sabres, ran towards the road-side, and seeing 
two Mexican soldiers, challenged them to halt, which refusing 
to do, and putting spurs to their horses to escape, they were 
fired upon, and one, it was thought, was badly wounded. The 
report of the gun created quite a sensation among us, as we were 
not aware, at the time, whence it came, and during the flurry the 
prisoner made his escape. The guard was then posted in the 
bushes, near the road, and the balance of our squad drawn up in 
battle array, to prevent surprise ; each man holding his horse by 
the bridle, prepared to fight or fly. After some consultation, it was 
thought advisable to send one of the men to Capt. McCulloch, to 
inform him of the cause of the report of the gun, and " Arch Gib- 
son" volunteering, was sent to perform that duty. During his 

I absence, we made two more Mexicans prisoners, who informed us 
that the main body of Col. Seguin's men had left China about nine 

1 o'clock that night, an express having arrived from Comargo, in- 



82 ENTRANCE INTO CHINA. / 

forming them of our approach. The express must have left that 
point at day-break, and going by Passa Sacate, the nearest route, 
by obtaining relays, accomplished the defeat of our object. 

On the return of Gibson, he told us that he had found the 
company encamped on a road, in the rear of the town, and that 
they were proceeding to the river bank, when the report of the 
gun arrested their movements, and they were waiting the return 
of the spies sent out to ascertain the cause of the alarm ; but 
upon his arrival, had concluded to remain in their position until 
daylight, when it was thought the attack would be made. 

" How did you find the camp, Arch ?" asked one of the men. 

" Why, I was right smartly bothered at first," said he, " but, 
getting down from my horse, I found the shod-tracks of our horses, 
and letting my critter smell their trail, he carried me right to it." 

The men were under arms all night, and not a wink of sleep 
was allowed us. Our prisoners lay on the ground, perfectly 
unconcerned ; one, untying a corner of his handkerchief which 
held his tobacco, and taking a corn-shuck from his hat, made a 
cigar which he lighted by means of a prepared rag, with a flint 
and steel ; and then puffing the smoke through his nose, said " he 
did not mind remaining with us till dayhght, but that his young 
wife would become alarmed at his absence :" at the same time 
the fellow was uncertain whether we intended cutting his throat 
or not. At the gray of the dawn, we left the mules tied to the 
chaparral bushes, and mounting our horses, rode fearlessly into 
the town of China, until we arrived at the plaza, where we formed. 
As w^e rode through the streets, the people commenced barricading 
the doors and windows, in evident alarm, and, save one or two men 
standing on the corners, there was no one to be seen. Our sur- 
prise was somewhat great, as we could see nothing of our com- 
pany ! Presently, however, v/e discovered a few heads peeping 
around a corner, and then drawn quickly back ; this was repeated 
several times, showing that the persons were evidently trying to 
make us out ; when the rest of our company was seen riding up 
towards the plaza, having taken us at first for Mexican troops. As 
Captain " Ben" rode in, the rim of his hat was turned up — a w^ay 
he had when any thing crossed him, and a sign for all not to be 
famihar. It was evident the game had escaped us; so, without 
saying a word, he merely ordered us to go back for the mules, 
and then follow him as fast as possible. 

After we had followed the enemy's trail for some six miles, we ar- 
rived at the river bank, and discovered the place where they had 
crossed. But there we found they had scattered out, so as to pre- 
vent pursuit, and our orders did not permit us to follow them far- 
ther. On our return to Jown, we passed the place where their 



CAMP AT CHINA. 



83 



rear-guard had been, and saw several of their camp-women still 
there, who had been left behind in their hurried retreat. A dense 
smoke was raised by these women, soon after we passed, as a 
signal for their spies, who were supposed to be secreted in the hills. 
This is one of the means of the Mexicans for making signals to 
each other in time of war, as the smoke can be seen many miles. 
There was much plunder and other property in the camp of the 
women, but we passed without molesting them, and proceeded to 
the town of China. 



CHAPTER IX. 

Camp at China— The School-house— Our return March — A Family up a 
Tree — We proceed to Passa Sacate — Trinidad Alderet — Encampment in 
the Prairie — McCuUoch's Story of his father's Compass — Camp on the San 
Juan— How to keep dry— Rancho Grande— The old Texian's true Story— 
Our return to Cornargo. 

On again entering the town of China, on the morning of the 
5th, we encamped in a large yard of one of the main buildings, 
having a good wall around it, near the plaza. Here we unsaddled 
our horses, and sent some Mexicans after corn and fodder ; and 
being worn-out, sleepy, and hungry, we concluded to stay until 
the next day. We had already loitered away the morning in the 
fruitless pursuit, and in attending to our horses, so that it was twelve 
o'clock before we got any thing to eat. But that day afforded us 
the treat of a good dinner, for we had plenty of mutton, chickens, 
and tortillas. In the building adjoining, were two quite pretty 
women, who were very kind to us, and told us that Col. Seguin, 
who had once commanded a company of Texians at the " battle 
of San Jacinto," had only left the town after the report of the gun, 
and had taken some men and gone out to ascertain its cause, not 
expecting us until the next day. Had our company, then, not 
been arrested in their course by the alarm, they would have 
reached the bank of the river, and thus cut off the retreat of his 
rear-guard. The country which we have passed through is very 
fine ; the hills are very high, and in the distance there are several 
mountains visible, which give to the whole a splendid appearance. 

The town of China is quite small, not containing over 1500 in- 
habitants. It has a neat Httle church, and the alcalde's house is 
a fine building ; but his honour took good care not to show 
himself to us. Near the plaza is also a school-house, the first we 
ever saw in Mexico. Out of curiosity, we paid the school-master 
a visit. The school contained about twenty or thirty little ragged 



84 A FAMILY IN A TREE. 

boys and girls, and the principal branches taught were reading 
and writing. 

The boys had no slates, and used instead sand boards, drawing 
their letters with a stick, which served for a pencil. The school- 
master was a thin, spare man, with a hatchet face, and seemed to 
think himself of more importance than any other person in the place, 
which we had good reason to believe. At night, after supper, the 
guard was paraded, with instructions, in case of a surprise, to 
fire a gun as the signal for a rally, when we were all to assem- 
ble at our captain's quarters. 

Just before day, the next morning, an alarm was given, which 
proved to be false, but which had assembled all our men to quar- 
ters, and as it was intended that we should have an early start, the 
men were ordered to get breakfast. Notwithstanding that the night 
had passed offquietly, yet it was not without an attempt to take us 
prisoners ; for the alcalde had ridden off to Rancho Ei Toro, and tried 
all his powers of persuasion to make the rancheros rise against us, but 
their fears of " los Texanos" could not be overcome, or else we might 
have enjoyed some sport. As we rode down to the river bank to 
water our horses, we met the young girls carrying jars, who were 
also going after water. One or two were rather pretty, and very 
smilingly bid us "buenos dias" as we reached the bank ; when a 
young Ranger, celebrated for his gallantry, taking a jar from one 
of the girls, filled it for her, and placed it on her head ; thanking 
him for his kindness with a look of modesty, she took his hand 
and kissed it. 

At 5, A. M., we were in the saddle again, and passing by Rancho 
El Toro, we soon after turned off and took the road to Passa Sa- 
cate, where it was supposed we would find some of Seguin's men, 
the place being fortified. As we passed along, we saw a man and 
woman up a tree off from the road, lying at their ease looking at 
us, while some little ones lay nestled round about them ! By 
placing poles across the branches, and in the forks of the tree, and 
spreading layers of grass, &c., they had made quite a comfortable 
nest of it. The man was a shepherd, and having^a large flock to 
tend, had made his home in the tree. We were told that it was 
frequently the case with this class of people, who were often some 
miles from a rancho, tending sheep, and that they take this means 
to preserve themselves from the wild animals and reptiles of the 
country. At 9, a. m., we arrived at Passa Sacate, a miserable- 
looking place, with a fortification built upon a hill, which we went 
up to examine. We saw several suspicious fellows about, but met 
with no force. As we passed through the rancho, our first-lieu- 
tenant, McMullen, recognised a Mexican, who proved to be " Trini- 
dad Alderet," a late heutenant at the battle of Mier, and who took 



85 

down the names of the Texian prisoners. He was very much 
alarmed, having also recognised McMullen, and would not let the 
men pay for any thing that they desired to purchase. Continuing 
our march, we crossed a deep ravine, through a dense chaparral 
thicket, until 2, p. m., when we encamped to graze our horses, and 
get our dinners. After resting an hour or so, we continued on 
through a wild, waste, prairie country, following a little path until 
about 9, p. M., when we encamped for the night. We had met 
with but one stream of water during this day's travel, and we had no 
supper, as fires were not allowed, for fear of discovering our posi- 
tion to the enemy. Our horses were staked behind a little thicket, 
and after posting the line of sentinels, we lay down on our blankets. 
While speaking about the course we had travelled, and referring 
to our compass, Capt. McCulloch related the following anecdote: 

"An old woodman," said he, "seldom wants a compass so long 
as he can see the sun, and even when it is cloudy you can always 
tell where the sun is, by a slight shadow from objects, be it ever 
so obscured. I recollect once I went a hunting with a gentleman 
and my father, and crossing the river in a boat, we hauled it up on 
the shore, and put out into the woods. Well, we did not meet 
with much luck, and so we put back for the boat. It was a cloudy 
day, and the gentleman carried a pocket compass with him, and 
pointed out our course back. We followed the direction for some 
time, but could see no river. That we were lost was now beyond 
a doubt. And father becoming tired of following the course of the 
gentleman's compass, determined to be guided by it no longer. 

" 'Well, it is strange,' said the gentleman, 'the compass can^t 
be wrong !' 

" 'D — n the compass,' said father, ' my boy Ben is worth all the 
compasses I ever saw ;' and turning to me, said, ' if you don't take 
us right straight to that boat, Ben, you shall never go on another 
hunt.' 

" So I took a straight shoot, just by guessing the way the woods 
ran, and brought them to the boat, sure enough ! As we were 
stepping in the boat, the gentleman said, with a laugh — 

" ' Well, that boy Ben of yours, Mr. McCulloch, is a perfect 
magnetic needle. He will make as great a geographer as his cele- 
brated namesake.' " 

That night we made two prisoners, and at daylight on the morn- 
ing of the 7th, started without breakfast, and rode on, passing 
several ranches, until 10, a. m., when we encamped on the banks 
of the San Juan, twenty miles from Comargo. On the road we 
met an old man carrying eggs and chickens to market at Comargo, 
whom we immediately bought out, and saved him the trouble of his 
journey. We had a most capital dinner of eggs, chickens, and 

8 



86 HOW TO KEEP DRY. 

coffee, and fine peaches for dessert, which were brought to us from 
the neighbouring ranchos. The river here was very rapid and 
obstructed by rocks, with steep, rugged banks. Several of the 
boys went in bathing here, but the water was too turbid to be 
pleasant. In the afternoon a heavy rain was seen coming up, and 
hurried preparations were made to preserve our arms from the wet. 
A young Ranger was seen taking off his clothes, which he care- 
fully rolled up in his blanket, and placing them at the foot of a 
tree, covered the whole with his saddle, when the rain commenced 
falling in torrents. He stood out in its midst, with perfect indif- 
ference, while the rest of his comrades were wrapped in their 
blankets, and had sought the shelter of the trees from the storm. 

" What are you doing out there, Harry ?" said one of his 
messmates. 

" Taking a shower-bath," said Harry. 

" Why, your clothes will get all wet, you fool." 

" No they won't, either," said Harry, " for they are wrapped 
up in my blanket. 

" And where is your blanket ?" 

" Why, under my saddle, snug enough !" said Harry, with a 
knowing look. 

" Well, that beats me," said his messmate, bursting into a loud 
laugh, in which all heartily joined ; " who ever would have thought 
of that way to keep dry !" 

The sun shortly after came out, but before we succeeded in drying 
our blankets and clothes, the order was given to " saddle up," and 
Harry was the only one in the company that rejoiced in having a 
dry suit to his back. We rode on till 8, p. m., when we arrived at 
Rancho Grande, where we encamped for the night. Here we 
made fires and cooked supper, and bought corn from the Mexicans 
for our horses, which were put into a coral, or cattle pen. There 
were a great many women here, who did a good business, selHng 
us tortillas and goat's milk. They were very sulky, and only 
wanted our money, showing that they took no pleasure to serve us. 
We now felt secure from surprise, and after the guard had been 
detailed, we spread our blankets around the pen, and lay down 
for a good sleep, our saddles as usual serving for a pillow. It was 
a fine moonlight night, and although we were very tired, yet the 
merry laughter which rang on the still air, proved that fatigue 
had no power to depress our spirits. While thus lying on our 
blankets, smoking our pipes and cigars, a story was called for by 
one of our mess, and the oldest Texian of our party was urged by 
all to spin us a yarn. Clearing his throat, and replenishing his 
pipe, the old fellow thus comnienced : 

" I don't know much about story -telling, boys, but I can tell you 




Tlie Abduclion. — p. S7 



THE OLD TEXIAn's STORY. 87 

of a thing that once happened in my settlement, which, if it is not 
altogether new to most of you, at least has the plain truth to 
recommend it. Some of you recollect old Andrew Lockhart, 
who used to hve down in the big bend of the Warloupe, (Guada- 
loupe) just below the Gluero settlement. At the time I speak of, 
he had a daughter just seventeen, and as beautiful and as dehcate 
as a prairie flower. Many a youngster's head was turned by her 
beauty, and many a brave lad's heart burned to win and wear the 
' Rose of the Warloupe.' Old Andrew was moughty proud of his 
gal, and loved her as deeply as any father could love a child. One 
summer evening she strolled out in the prairie to gather flowers, 
when suddenly a war party of the Comanches dashed out of the 
timber bottom, and rushed upon her. She shrieked and turned to 
fly, but it was no use ; a delicate gal could hardly escape such 
fleet pursuers as were on her trail, and before she had run twenty 
yards, the chief dashed by, and stooping from the saddle as he 
passed, seized her around the waist, and raised her by his strong 
arm to a seat before him. Without halting his horse for a mo- 
ment, was this feat accomplished, and before the poor gal could 
scarcely cry aloud for aid, she was borne rapidly away towards 
the mountains. 

" Her old father was frantic with grief and rage. Hastily col- 
lecting his neighbours and friends, he pursued the savages who 
had thus forcibly stolen his child, and with the sagacity and skill 
of an old frontierman, tracked them to their mountain haunts. 
Late one evening, we came in sight of the Comanche encamp- 
ment, and finding that we had not been discovered by the In- 
dians, concluded to defer the attack until daybreak on the next 
morning. Secreting ourselves as well as we could, we waited 
with impatience for the hour of the coming fight. As soon as the 
first streak of hght was seen in the sky, the Texian war-shout 
was raised, and we rushed down upon the village. 

♦' The Comanches turned out in numbers, and a fierce battle 
began. I cannot describe to you the perils we went through that 
day. There were only about forty of us, while the Comanches 
were 200 strong. Notwithstanding the great odds against us, we 
fought them desperately from daylight until dark, and many of 
their greatest warriors fell before our steady fire. But it wouldn't 
do — it wouldn't do — the odds were too great ; they overpowered 
us, and we were compelled to fall back. 

" Old Andrew fought like a devil that day. On every part of 
the field his voice was heard cheering his friends on, and you 
could see his white hairs waving in the wind as he headed a 
charge, or sometimes fought single-handed v/ith some big warrior 
of the tribe. Several times he was within a few feet of the tent 



88 EETURN TO COMARGO. 

where his daughter was confined, and could hear her voice call- 
ing on him for aid. But it wouldn't do — he was driven back with 
the rest of us, and we dragged him away when we retreated. 
He was the last man to quit the fight, and seemed to have been 
the mark for every bullet and arrow that was shot at us, yet, 
strange to say, he escaped unhurt. We were not strong enough 
to whip them, said the old Texian, as his voice grew husky with 
emotion, and we were compelled to leave the poor gal in the 
hands of her savage enemies." 

" Well ; what became of her," said a young Ranger, drawing 
his hand across his eyes. 

" She was delivered up sometime afterwards, when we made a 
treaty with the Comanches at San Antonio. She returned to her 
father's house, but she never recovered from the hardships and 
cruelties she endured at the hands of the Indians. She was al- 
ways melancholy and downcast. Her heakh was injured, her 
spirits gone, and her heart broken. She lived only a few months, 
then drooped and died. Curses on them Comanche dogs !" said 
the old Texian, grinding his teeth in the excitement of his feel- 
ings, " I have never sent a bullet through one of their infernal 
hearts from that day to this, without remembering as I pulled the 
trigger, the fate of that poor gal." 

The next morning, at 6, a. m., we left Rancho Grande, and 
nooned it at at the Sugar Rancho ; where, after grazing our horses, 
we left at 2, p. m. — and at 6, p. m., arrived safe back at our old 
camp at Comargo. The result of our reconnoissance of the road 
was, that it was impracticable for the movement of artillery, on 
account of the narrow passages and deep ravines. During our 
absence. Gen. Taylor, with the whole of the First Division, had 
arrived, consisting of the 3d and 4th infantry, composing the Third 
Brigade, under Col. Garland ; and the 1st and 2d infantry, under 
Col. Riley, composing the Fourth Brigade, with Capt. Ridgely's 
battery of flying artillery, the whole under the command of Gen. 
Twiggs. We found our friends all well, and being invited to 
spend the evening with Lieut. D , a group of anxious listen- 
ers was formed around us, while we were made to detail the ad- 
ventures of the China Scout. 



CAMP AT COMARGO. 89 



CHAPTER X. 

Camp at Comargo — Scout to Punta Aguda — Lake Guardado — The Chase 
and the Death — Encampment near Mier — Captain Duncan in command — 
" Jack Everitt" — The Fandango at Punta Aguda — The Search for Canales 
and Col. Rameres — The attempted Escape of a Mexican Officer — Corporal 
Bawk and the Mexican Ladies — The Dance — The midnight March. 

Comargo had now become the most important point of military 
operations on the whole line. Many of the houses had been 
rebuilt, and the town presented the most busy scenes of acti- 
vity. The quartermaster's and commissary's departments were 
crowded to overflowing, with people on all sorts of business, 
making contracts and reports, receiving orders, &c., &c. Hun- 
dreds of Mexicans were daily employed as labourers — and large 
contracts had been made for the hire of pack-mules, at fifty 
cents per day. The camp of the Regulars had been removed 
farther down the river San Juan, on its banks — a fair level spot 
having been cleared up for the purpose. The long lines of tents 
of the different regiments of the divisions presented a beautiful 
scene. The regiments had commenced drilling, and the batta- 
lion drills at evening parade, when the different bands beat off, 
made a grand military display. The Mexicans were continually 
hovering around the camp of the Regulars — selling fruit, &c., 
and offering horses for sale. It was often suspected that many 
who came into camp on a pretext to sell their horses, were Mexi- 
can officers in disguise — and such the fact afterwards proved to 
be — for they had been detected taking notes of the force of the 
different regiments, &c. But they never were molested. 

Such was the state of things, that it was difficult to tell a mocho 
from a greaser, or in other words, a soldier from a friendly Mexi- 
can. It may here be necessary to explain, as the terms are fre- 
quently made use of, that mocho is a low Spanish word for a foot- 
soldier, and the term greaser we suppose is a corruption of the 
word grazier, the class of peons or labourers of the country. As 
the Mexican officers and soldiers never dressed in uniform, only 
when with their companies or regiments, we could not, of course, 
distinguish them from citizens, which gave them a double advan- 
tage over us. They would come into our camps, spy out all our 
movements, and keep their forces continually advised of all our 
operations. Thus, it was impossible to go on any expedition, or to 

8* 



90 THE FEUDAL SYSTEM IN MEXICO. 

undertake any secret service, without their knowing it and taking 
methods to defeat us. By these means was the noble and daring 
Capt. Thornton ambuscaded. He received his orders at 6, p. m., 
to ascertain where the enemy had crossed the Rio Grande, and at 
1, A. M., the same night, an express arrived, informing the Mexi- 
cans of his coming. Thus, too, have many other expeditions 
failed, from the facihties afforded them of knowing all our intended 
operations. 

To give a general idea of the people of Mexico, we must go 
back to the old feudal times of Europe ; for the same system, with 
modifications due to the pecuHarities of the country, now exists in 
Mexico. As in the olden days of chivalry, when the vassals and 
retainers held from the liege lord or baron, by mihtary or other 
service, and the serfs or bondsmen, originally slaves, or becoming 
so by indebtedness to the lord, were bought and sold with the land ; 
so too with Mexico. The rancheros who reside on the large estates 
or haciendas of the Mexican Dons, answer to vassals and retainers, 
and are subject at times to do mihtary service, akhough not so 
severely enjoined upon them as in former days. The peons, Avho 
are the lowest order of Mexicans, are the serfs or slaves, whose 
labour belongs to the owner of the estate, to whom they have be- 
come indebted, and who are generally kept by their poverty in 
this state of base servitude. The third, or medium class, is com- 
posed of those who own small property or farms, or hold from the 
Don by socage tenure, paying a certain rent, and who also hold 
peons, or serfs, under them. The fourth class consists of the 
alcaldes or mayors of the towns, (who as magistrates hold courts 
of civil and criminal jurisdiction,) and the Dons, or large land- 
holders, who are subject to the tyranny and authority of the mih- 
tary chieftains or despots. Thus, as in feudal times, when the 
barons called upon the lesser lords and their vassals to support 
them in some feud, so now in Mexico : when her mihtary chief- 
tains are arrayed against each other, they call upon the Dons, 
(not,it is true, with the same authority which the barons exercised, 
but which they usurp,) who in turn call upon their rancheros, 
or retainers, to support the cause which they willingly or unwil- 
hngly sustain. 

The higher classes of Mexicans are the Creoles of the country, 
and descendants of Europeans and some few Americans. The 
lower class are a mingled race of the whites and Indians, called 
mestizoes, of the Indian and negro, of quadroons and mulattoes. 
When Mexico was a colony of Spain, so numerous were the de- 
grees and shades of colour of the populace, that the king had the 
power of conferring the honour of whiteness upon an individual 



RECONNOISSANCE OF THE MIER ROAD. 91 

of any colour, by a decree of the Audencia,* which for ever after 
gave him all the rank and privileges of being white. Guerrero, 
the second president of Mexico, was a griffs one darker than a 
quadroon, while others who took part in the government were of 
the pure Indian blood. These grades exist to this day. 

As we have seen in the last chapter, the road to China having 
been deemed inadvisable as a line of march for our army, orders 
were soon after issued for us to make a reconnoissance of the road 
by Mier, as far as Serralvo, as the army was now ready for its 
march to Monterey, and only awaited our report. 

On the 12th of August, tlien, three days after our arrival from 
China, a portion of our company, with a detachment of Capt. 
Gillespie's Rangers, accompanied by Capt. James Duncan, of the 
3d artillery, and Lieut. Wood of the engineer corps, with a body- 
guard of four men, and a guide named Baker, were in the saddle 
for another scout. At 8 o'clock, a. m., we left Comargo, crossed 
the San Juan, and took the road to Mier. The day was powerful 
hot, the thermometer being by sensation about 110°. Our horses 
suffered much, and we had to travel very slowly. After four 
miles, we passed Rancho Risa, and encamped two miles beyond, 
on the road-side, and stripped our horses to graze, while we sought 
the shade of the chaparral bushes. Here we stopped till about 5, 
p. M., when we proceeded on about three miles, and encamped be- 
side a beautiful lake of fresh water, called Guardado, one of the most 
lovely spots we ever saw ; the fine large trees on its banks afforded 
a grateful shade for man and horse. There is quite a large rancho 
there, by the same name, and little Mexican boys came down to 
our camp, bringing us tortillas, eggs and fruit. The lake is about 
two miles long, nearly half a mile wide, and very deep. Its lim- 
pid waters were too tempting to be resisted, and many of us bathed 
in its refreshing coolness. The opposite shore was lined with a 
deep verdure, while here and there might be seen a flower of 
richest fragrance, whose perfumes scented the evening air, as the 
melting rays of the setting sun cast a flood of light over the dim- 
pled surface of the waters, and the wild lay of the woodland bird 
echoed sweetly over the lake, from the entangled thicket. 

After a hearty supper, we saddled up, and at 7^ p. m., left the 
lake, taking a W. S. W. course through a wild rugged country. 
About nine o'clock at night, we crossed a deep ravine, on the other 
side of which was a thick chaparral wood. As the head of the 
command turned an angle in the road, a horseman came riding 
towards us. 

" Buena noche," said our guide to him. 

* Vide Encyc. Amer. 



92 A HORSE-THIEF SHOT. 

"Buena noche," replied the Mexican, without stopping his 
horse. 

*' Stop," said our guide. 

"No time for stopping now," said the Mexican, and pricking 
his horse with his spurs, dashed on. 

"Stop him," cried McCulJoch, "stop him, boys!" and giving 
chase, off he galloped in pursuit, followed by several others. 

The Mexican was prevented by the rear of the company from 
crossing the ravine, and turning his horse, broke into the thick 
chaparral wood. There was no moon, and the man's escape was 
favoured by the darkness of the wood. It was rough riding, and 
the low hanging branches gave them many a scratch as they 
rushed on in the chase. Suddenly the report of several pistols 
were heard — and then all was still. Our captain and the men 
soon after came back, the former without his hat, and reported 
that they had shot the man, as he was attempting to cross a bayou, 
in making a circuit round to gain the road, and on rising the 
other side, he fell from his horse, which was seen to gain the 
bank without its rider. It was afterwards ascertained that the 
Mexican was a notorious horse-thief, and was actually riding one 
of our own horses, stolen from us a few weeks ago, which ac- 
counted for the hurry of the rider, who well said, " it was no time 
for stopping." The horse was thus restored to its owner. Proceed- 
ing on, our road leading over barren hills, we left Mier to the right 
three miles distant, and dismounted, being about twenty-six miles 
from Comargo. Here our Captain was taken very ill, and deter- 
mined to go to Mier, leaving the expedition in command of Captain 
Duncan. It was some time after midnight, and Capt. Duncan or- 
dered the command to camp until day. We merely loosened the 
girths of our saddles, and lay down on the bare ground, holding 
the cabestros or halters of our horses in our hands or tied to 
our arms, and thus snatched a few hours' sleep. 

On the morning of the 18th, before day had yet dawned, we 
were again on the road. The men were much jaded from the 
hot and fatiguing march of the preceding day, and having had 
but a few hours' rest, they had not yet recovered from their drow- 
siness. Our horses were quite fresh, however. We rode silently 
along, many of the men dozing in the saddles, until 8 o'clock, 
when we encamped off from the road by the side of a pleasant 
little creek, where we staked out our horses to graze, posted sen- 
tinels on the road, and got breakfast. Here we remained until 
4 o'clock, p. M., the weather being too hot to travel in the middle 
of the day. As we were ordered to saddle up, a horseman was 
seen coming down the road, who being hailed, rode into our camp. 
It proved to be " Jack Everitt," son of Judge Everitt, of Alabama, 



A SURPRISE AT PUNTA AGUDA. 93 

a young man who had been living some years in Mexico, trading. 
He was dressed hke a Mexican, and spoke the language very 
well, and was now employed in the quarter-master's department 
as interpreter and contractor. He was so well known throughout 
that part of the country, that he was generally allowed to travel 
unmolested. He afterwards joined our company, as the army 
moved on, and fought with the Texians at the storming of Monte- 
rey. After several questions, Everitt told us that he had left 
Punta Aguda that morning, and the night previous he was at a 
large fandango there, and another was to be given that night to 
Gen. Canales, and Col. Christoval Rameres, who were expected 
to attend it. It was immediately determined to visit the scene of 
festivity, as it lay on our route ; Capt. Duncan giving us a carte 
blanche to attend the dance, and the boys brightened up at the pros- 
pect of the frolic. We pushed on then, for that place, thinking 
to make two distinguished prisoners. At about 6, p. m., we met 
two Mexicans going towards Mier, one of whom was Canales's 
brother. He carried in his hand a common straw hat, besides 
the one he had on, and as we had nothing but a cloth cap to shel- 
ter ourself from the sun, we asked him what he would take for 
it ? He replied he did not wish to sell it, and as it was no time 
for making bargains, we took the hat from him, and giving him a 
dollar, bade him Aclios. At dark, the command was formed into 
single file, and Capt. Duncan had his charger saddled, giving the 
mule he had ridden to one of his men to lead. We now pro- 
ceeded on at a rapid rate until about 10, p. m., when we arrived 
within a short distance of Punta Aguda, and a halt was called, for 
the purpose of reconnoitering before going into the place. We 
were delayed some twenty minutes, when all the arrangements 
having been made, and a guard stationed at a bridge, which we 
crossed to get into the place, we marched on, sure of our game. 
As we neared the town, we could hear the music, among which was 
a bass drum, which seemed to drown all other sounds. On we gal- 
loped in order to take them by surprise, and to prevent escape. 
We had now gained the avenues, where sentinels were again 
posted with orders to shoot any man trying to escape, when the 
dogs set up such a barking as almost deafened our ears ; still we 
were not discovered, and we kept on until we reached the large 
square, which was most brilhantly hghted up, and which con- 
tained some two hundred men and women, engaged in dancing. 
W"e immediately surrounded the square, while their music kept 
up such a din that they had not even heard our approach, not- 
withstanding the barking of the dogs. And not until we had 
completely surrounded them, and our interpreter cried out several 
times at the top of his voice, Silencio! did we succeed in attract- 



94 THE RANGERS AT A FANDANGO. 

ing their attention. As the music ceased, on looking up, they 
were struck with terror and astonishment, at beholding themselves 
surrounded on all sides, by fierce and savage-looking men with 
rifles in their hands, pointing from every direction towards them. 
The women shrieked aloud, and ran towards the houses which 
lined one side of the square. We told them that the first man 
who attempted to move would be shot, but that the women 
might go where they pleased. Canales and Rameres were then 
demanded. But they protested most solemnly that they were 
not there, declaring that the dignitaries had both left at sun- 
down. They then attempted to put out the hghts, which was 
prevented by threatening them with death. It was known that 
Rameres had a house there, and they were requested to point 
it out, which being done, we were ordered by Capt. Duncan to 
proceed with two men, to search it. As we rode off, we called 
the attention of our commander to a movement making in one cor- 
ner of the square. On reaching the house of Rameres, our 
entrance was strenuously opposed at first by an old woman, who, 
at last was forced to give way, while one of us entered, the other 
two guarding the door ; a strict search was made throughout the 
house, but no one was discovered. On returning, we heard the 
report of two rifles in quick succession, and thought that the dance 
had now indeed opened in earnest. As we galloped up, we 
found that two men had attempted to make their escape, and were 
shot at ; killing one, who proved to be a captain of Mexican in- 
fantry, and wounding another in the arm, who was supposed to 
be a . soldier. The latter was caught and brought back, and, 
while our surgeon was occupied in setting the man's arm, which 
had been broken, the music was ordered to strike up, and the 
young girls again joined in the dance, having assured them of our 
friendship. As soon as the dance had recommenced. Corporal 
Bawk, one of Duncan's men, a tall, good-looking young fellow, 
jumped the enclosure, and the music playing to our astonishment an 
old Virginia reel, the corporal led off a very pretty girl, to the great 
amusement of the lookers on, surprising the girls with his activity 
in the dance. This was too much for us, and as the reel ended, 
they next struck up a waltz, and we followed suit by jumping the 
enclosure, and approaching a girl of pretty figure and feature, 
who was hanging languishingly on the arm of a well-dressed 
greaser, we bid them buenas noches, and asked the Mexican in 
our best Spanish, if we might dance with his fair partner. The 
young girl gave her assent, but the Mexican replied he did not 
understand us, at the same time shaking his fore-finger signifl- 
cantly. We then asked him if he understood Spanish, giving 
him an unmistakeable look, and carelessly placing our hand on a 



MARCH TO SERRALVO. 95 

pistol in our belt. " Si Caballero," he replied, relinquishing the 
fair one, who taking our arm, we were soon whirling in the mazy- 
dance. A few others now joined us, selecting the fairest for their 
partners, thus letting them see that we were just as ready to 
frolic as to fight. After the dance, refreshments were served 
round, consisting of sweet cakes, mu scaly* and agua ardiente. 

It had been ascertained that Canales and Rameres had both 
been there, but had left suddenly about dark, without giving any 
notice of their departure, and were supposed to be lurking in the 
neighbourhood. They most certainly had gained secret infor- 
mation of our coming ; and it was thought the brother of Canales 
must have turned back by some near route, and conveyed to them 
the news, when they quietly slipped off without informing the 
people at the rancho, to conceal their cowardice. It was now 
midnight, and the surgeon having finished setting the wounded 
man's arm, we were ordered to horse ; so, bidding the fair seno- 
ritas buenas noches, much against our will, we took the road to- 
wards Serralvo. The men were evidently disappointed on being 
ordered to march, as it was confidently expected that we would 
have camped for the night at Punta Aguda. Not so, however, 
with our captain ; he well knew the danger of our position, and 
that we were liable to be cut off or surrounded, should we tarry 
long enough at one place for the enemy to concentrate, or for in- 
formation to be carried in advance of us. Thus we kept on riding 
through the dark woods, while the low hanging branches of the 
trees frequently gave us many a scratch, and would occasionally 
knock off our hats, much to our vexation, and which forced us to 
keep our eyes open — for the excitement had worn off, and the 
men nearly all felt that heavy drowsiness which succeeds it, to 
say nothing of the fatigue of the march. 

At 3, A. M., we encamped on the roadside, near a rapid little 
stream of water, where the grass was very fine. Unsaddling our 
horses, we took them to water, and then tied them by their cabes- 
tros to graze. Sentinels were posted, and the order was given for 
the men to hold themselves in readiness for any emergency. We 
threw ourselves upon the dewy grass, with our arms lying beside 
us, and although hungry, we thought only of gaining an hour of 
sleep. 

* A strong liquor made from the aloe tree. 



96 THE TOWN OF SERRALVO. 



CHAPTER XI. 

Scout to Serralvo — Description of the Serralvo Mountains, and the Town — 
Our Reception — Encampment on the Rio Alamo — Our departure for Agua 
Lejos — Encampment — Return — Description of the place — The Alcalde — 
Paso Isla — The crossing — The Story of " Strabismus Bill" — Arrival at 
Mier — Return to Comargo — The Grand Review. 

At the dawn of day on the 14th, we were aroused from 
our slumbers, and ordered into the saddle. We were always 
ready, as our toilet was soon made, it merely consisting of wash- 
ing our faces when the opportunity offered itself. The soft balmy 
clime of Italy could not have surpassed the ray of light which 
first broke in upon the morn, as it met, and was kissed by the 
sweet breeze that welcomed one of the most delightful daj^-s that 
ever broke over a southern land. The Serralvo mountains, which 
we had long seen at a great distance, now appeared quite close to 
us ; and as they loomed up in the heavens, presenting a dim 
bluish colour, they filled us with wonder and delight. As the sun 
gradually rose, tinging their summits with its golden hues, the 
dark grayish mist lifted and disclosed a deep rich green, most 
grateful to the eye. Silvery streams, murmuring sweetly, mean- 
dered along the road ; on either side of which were seen cattle 
quietly grazing ; and here and there flowers of richest hue and 
fragrance so tempting, that we could not help dismounting to 
pluck them. There was that impressive stillness prevailing 
through the woods, which one is never made to feel in any other 
place, and which was uninterrupted, save by the occasional carols 
of some bright plumed bird as it sang its morning lay. 

At 7, A. M., we crossed a little stream, and ascended the hill, of 
rock or limestone, on which is situated the town of Serralvo, 
seventy-five miles from Comargo. Posting sentinels at the ave- 
nues, the main body entered the town, and rode into the plaza. 
Here we formed into line, sitting on our horses, while Capt. Dun- 
can, with the interpreter, rode up to the alcalde's house, and de- 
manded the surrender of the place, for the purpose of establish- 
ing a military depot ; which was readily acceded to, on assuring 
them that individual rights would be respected. Serralvo is cer- 
tainly a most beautiful place, and, indeed, its site is a most roman- 
tic spot. The town is well built of stone, and contains about 3000 
souls. It has a neat pretty church, finely situated near the river 
Alamo, which runs through the town. It also contains a well-built 
arsenal, with battlements, and the gardens were most delightful, 
and filled with fruit-trees. It lies about eight miles from the base 
of the Serralvo mountains, the highest peaks of which are about 
1200 feet high. 



THE SERRALVO MOUNTAINS. 9*? 

We then rode through the town, and encamped about a quarter 
of a mile from its outskirts, on the Rio Alamo, a very rapid and 
bold current, cool and as clear as crystal, running over occasional 
rocks, and forming little falls. Here we obtained plenty of corn and 
fodder for our horses. The inhabitants treated us very kindly /or 
our money, and came into our camp, selHng us melons, peaches, deli- 
cious grapes, pomegranates, abocates, (a species of egg plant,) cakes, 
milk, viands, &c. After a most delightful bath in the river, we had 
a sumptuous feast ; the alcalde having sent a basket to our captain 
whose mess we happened to be in, filled with nice viands, tomatoes, 
roast kid, with sauce piquant, pies, &c. We then took a sound nap, 
under the fine shade of a large tree, and at 4|, p. m., saddled up 
for Agua Lejos, or the town of distant waters, which lay to the 
westward of our course on our way back. Crossing the Rio 
Alamo, we rode along through a bottom surrounded by very high 
hills. Off to the left, we passed a rancho situated at the top of 
one of these hills, and as we neared it we saw two men riding 
close to the brow of the hill, spying out. There was an evident 
excitement among them, and we halted, while the advance guard 
went on ahead with the guide. We now had to ascend a high 
ridge of hills. It was very hot, and the hills were steep and 
stony. Having gained the top of one, we saw along the ridge to 
the right, quite a body of armed men, whom we first took for the 
enemy ; but it was soon ascertained that it was our advance 
guard, and that we had taken the road up the wrong hill. So we 
had to descend and climb another. When we reached the bot- 
tom again, we saw a man holding a horse at the foot of the hill 
of the rancho, as if ready for some one to make his escape. 
Some supposed that Canales might be secreted there. It was a 
most villanous looking place, and for its means of defence, it 
would have made a good bandit's haunt, which it looked more 
like than any thing else. Our time was too precious, however, 
to be wasted on surmises, so we rode on, and joined the advance. 
About sundown, we came to a large rancho, where we saw a two- 
story brick house ! the only one of the kind we saw in Mexico. 

At half-past 9, p. m., we crossed the river Agua Lejos, on which 
is situated the town, and where stands an old mill of the style of 
the sixteenth century. We were told that there was a force here 
of 200 troops. On riding through the place, however, which is 
very beautiful, no one impeded our way — and pressing an old 
Mexican into our service, we told him to carry us to a corn-field, 
which he said was about half a mile off. Taking the lead, 
on he rode, winding around fences and lanes for about two miles, 
still without coming to any corn-field. The men were tired and get- 
ting impatient, and thought the old fellow might be leading us into 

9 



98 THE CROSSING OF PASO ISLA. 

an ambuscade, or had some motive for taking us such a round ; 
so he was threatened to be shot if he did not immediately show 
us a corn-field, which he soon afterwards found, with a fine cha- 
parral fence around it, and plenty of good pasturage. Here we 
encamped for the night. 

At dayhght on the morning of the 15th, the men were ordered 
to eat what they had for breakfast ; after which, twenty men were 
detailed by Capt. Duncan to go back with him to town ; while 
Lieut. Wood was ordered to proceed on with the command to 
Paso el Coyote, and wait for us. We then rode back to town, 
and stopped at the alcalde's house in the plaza. A long parley 
took place, which resulted in his honour acquiescing to all we 
wished. He was extremely polite, and sent us out some agua- 
pie, a kind of wine, and furnished us with some cigarritos and 
puros. While thus formed in the plaza, we met the ladies 
coming from mass, dressed with their rebosas and mantellinas ; 
they looked very neat, and dressed with more taste than any we 
had yet seen. They greeted us very kindly as they passed, and 
then stood off, on one side of the square, till we left the place. 
We here obtained the information, that we would not be able to 
cross a river at the Pass without great difficulty ; so, two men 
were hired to accompany us with axes to cut a way through the 
thickets, and to fell a tree across the river. We proceeded on to 
Paso el Coyote, but found that Lieut. Wood had gone to Paso 
Isla, so we kept their trail until we arrived at that place, where 
we found the command waiting for us. Here it was determined 
to cross, though it was a very ugly place, for the current ran about 
six miles an hour. A large tree was felled across the river, on 
which we crossed with our saddles, blankets and clothes ; and then 
being stripped, we took our horses down the bank and swam them 
over, landing about a quarter of a mile below. The sun was very 
hot, and coming out on the other side, we had to ride bareback 
through a chaparral thicket, back to the place where we had de- 
posited our rigging. Of course, we did not escape without many 
a scratch from the entangled thorny brush. It is strange what 
scenes one will go through ; what obstacles and difficulties over- 
come, when forced by the necessity of circumstances, and which, 
when passed, seem only as trifles. And yet, to those who never 
led a life of adventure, these trials seem as difficulties insur- 
mountable. 

The command being ordered to encamp — fires were kindled, 
and the different messes went to work preparing dinner, which 
consisted of a biscuit, a piece of broiled bacon, and a cup of coffee. 
About 5, p. M., we saddled up, and taking the road to Mier, con- 
tinued on for twenty-five miles, when we encamped nine miles 



99 

from that town, on a beautiful level green, near a thick copse of 
chaparral. Captain Duncan here left the command in charge of 
Lieut. Wood, and after supper, proceeded on with the guide and 
his body-guard to Mier, and Comargo, in order to report the result 
of the reconnoissance, as no time was to be lost. We were now 
out of the woods-^Xh-Ai is, we felt secure from any surprise or at- 
tack, being close to Mier, which was garrisoned by Capt. J. R. 
Vinton's company of the artillery battalion. It was a fine star- 
light night, and the men were reclining on their blankets around 
in groups, talking over the incidents of our late scouts. 

" Well, give me the girls of Punta Aguda, yet," said one of a 
group, "they are prettier, and better dressed than any I've 
seen." 

" I don't know," said a young fellow named Clark, " the 
alcalde's daughter at Serralvo is hard to beat." 

" Not half as pretty as Matilde,''^ replied another, who had an 
obliquity of sight. 

" Who is Matilde, Tom," asked two or three. 

" Why, the girl we saw at Agua Lejos, with the pink rebosa" 
said Tom. 

" Well, she was as pretty, and better dressed than any I've 
seen," said Clark. 

" How did you find out her name, Tom?" said the first speaker. 

" Why, I asked her, to be sure ; she was coming from mass, 
with a crowd of other girls, and as they passed us, they all curte- 
sied, and said, ' buenas dias ;' well, this girl looked so neat and 
pleasant, that I couldn't help stopping her, and asking her name ; 
and when she told it to me, I think she showed the prettiest set 
of teeth I ever saw." 

" Ha, ha, ha — Tom is in love with a Mexican girl," said 
Clark. 

"Take my advice, Tom," said one of Gillespie's Rangers, 
" and never marry a Mexican girl, for it would be dangerous for 
2/OM," giving the pronoun a mysterious emphasis. 

" How so," said Tom, with an inquiring look. 

" Oh, it's a long story," said the Ranger, " and then I don't 
like to tell these love tales." 

" Oh, yes, let's have it," said several ; and Tom's curiosity be- 
ing excited, his entreaties grew the more earnest. 

" Well," said the Ranger, as he resettled himself on his blanket, 
and knocking the ashes out of his pipe, carefully put it away. 
" Well, I once knew a fellow who, for many years, was engaged 
in the smuggling trade with the Mexicans on the Pacific coast. 
He was said to have been born in the States. But it was hard to 
tell. He had black eyes and hair, and, if he had ever been white, 



100 THE ranger's love STORY. 

the sun had shaded his complexion to a dark brown. He spoice 
the lingo perfectly well, and, if he was born in the States, his 
English some how had a sort of a twist in it. There were many- 
strange stories told about him ; and it was said he once hved in 
Italy. No one ever knew his real name. The Mexicans called 
him Capitan Bill. He was about five feet si« inches in stature, 
and rather delicate than robust ; his features were regular, and 
nothing about him very striking, except that one of his eyes had 
a notion never to leave the corner nearest his nose." Here the 
group smiled and turned a look on Tom. 

" It was about fifteen years ago, at the time of the colonization 
of Texas, when I was that many years old," continued the Ranger, 
" that Capitan Bill first came down to our settlement, and there some 
how he got the name of Strabismus Bill.''^ 

" Got the name of what ?" said Tom. 

" Strabismus Bill," repeated the Ranger. 

" What did they call him that for ?" said Tom. 

" Why, I believe the way it came about," said the Ranger, 
" was that Bill fell in love with a lovely girl, who, at the same 
time, was being courted by the doctor of our settlement. Kate 
Young was counted the most beautiful girl for miles around, and, 
as Bill played on the guitar and sang Italian songs, he sorter took 
her first. But the doctor told her one day that Bill had the stra- 
hismus, which so alarmed her that she would never see Bill again. 
It was known all about that Kate had kicked Bill on account of 
the strabismus, and so long as he remained about them parts they 
called him Strabismus Bill. 

" Shortly after, Strabismus Bill disappeared from the settlement, 
and was not heard of for some years. It was after the Texian 
war had closed that I met a friend who told me the sad end of 
poor Bill. It appeared, after he left us, he went back to his old 
trade. Well, it was while on his way from Mazatlan, where he 
had been with some Mexican smugglers, and were returning with 
a cavallada of some 500 mules, laden with teas and silks, which 
had been clandestinely landed on the coast from the East Indies, 
that he met with an incident that controlled his after-life. They 
had so far eluded the vigilance of the excise officers as to gain 
•the interior. So well did they know the geography of the 
country, and every path and trail, that, in case of an alarm, they 
would all scatter out in every direction, so as to avoid pursuit, 
then strike for the trail on the course of their route, and thus 
all meet again after one or two days of separation. In those days 
the smugglers and the bandits made common cause of it, and 
afforded each other protection. 

" One night as they were travelling along, they passed a ran- 



101 

cho, which had heen attacked hy the Indians, and all the people 
massacred. On entering one of the huts, Bill thought he heard 
a sigh, and, looking up into a httle loft, he discovered a young girl, 
who, upon perceiving him, jumped down, and, clasping him 
around the neck, to his surprise and amazement, and amid a 
shower of kisses, greeted him as her hrother ! Notwithstanding 
Bill's protestations to the contrary, still clinging to his neck, she 
heeded him not, and, with sobs of grief, told him how their parents 
had been murdered. Bill continued to disclaim the relationship ; 
but all he could do would not convince her of the mistake ; so he 
took her up on his horse and carried her to his home. 

" A few days after their arrival, her true brother made his ap- 
pearance, he having accidentally stopped at Bill's house on his 
way home. And, indeed, the resemblance between the two was 
so striking and remarkable, that it was not strange that even a 
sister should have been deceived." 

" Why, was he cross-eyed too ?" said Clark. 

" Of course he was," answered the Ranger, " or how could he 
look like Bill ?" 

" Well," continued he, " as the girl was very beautiful. Bill fell 
in love with her. Some months afterwards, it was ascertained 
that she was- the niece of a weakhy Mexican Don, who, having 
heard of her misfortune, had written to her to come and hve with 
his family at his hacienda. Bill accompanied her, and asked her 
uncle's permission to marry her. He consented ; but it was plain 
the girl married more out of gratitude than from love. She never 
seemed happy after the marriage. With others she appeared gay 
enough ; but in the presence of Bill she was always sad. One 
day it was discovered that she had poisoned him." 

" Poisoned him !" said Tom, with surprise ; " poisoned him ! 
what for ?" 

" Why, some said it was because she was in love with another ; 
but it was generally attributed to the reason that he was so infernal 
ugly, and always looked cross at her." A loud laugh burst from 
the crowd, while Tom rolled himself up in his blanket, and was 
not heard of any more until next morning. 

Early on the day of the 16th we were on the road to Mier, where 
we arrived at 7, a. m. We were warmly greeted by Capt. McCul- 
loch, who had nearly recovered from his illness, as well as by the 
officers in command of the town. The company encamped under 
some large trees, near a beautiful little stream called the Alcantro, 
a branch of the Rio Grande, which rippled by the town. Here 
the men got breakfast, and we were plentifully supplied with fruit 
by the inhabitants. After breakfast, we visited the churches, 
plaza, prison, and other pubhc b'uildings ; also, the house of Don 

9* 



102 IIE\1EW OF THE TKOOPS BY GEN. TAYLOR. 

Domingo Moricio, celebrated for being one of the houses in which 
the Texians made such a gallant defence. The house bore evi- 
dent signs of the attack from the many balls and bullet holes. 
One of our men, who was in this very house during the battle, 
showed us an oven in the yard, the iron door of which was riddled 
with bullet holes — the Mexicans having thought at the time that 
the Texians had sought shelter therein. We were also shown 
the walls which the Mexicans attempted to scale, but who were 
driven back with rocks and stones. Don Domingo, who is an 
Italian, keeps a very good tavern here, and has three very pretty 
daughters, the eldest of whom, Juanita, spoke tolerably good Eng- 
lish. Don Domingo had lived for many years in the country, and 
had married a Mexican woman ; but there was something in his 
children far above the common Mexican girls — a something which 
showed blood. Mier is quite a manufacturing town, and in almost 
every house, you see its inmates occupied with the loom or spin- 
ning wheel. They make a great number of fine blankets and 
other articles. There were also several large stores there. 
Capt. Vinton kindly sent us an invitation to dine, and w^e were 
introduced to the officers of his mess, with whom we spent a very 
pleasant evening. 

At daylight, on the 17th, we left for Comargo. At 10, a. m., we 
reached Lake Guardado, where we had a fine bath, and made 
breakfast ; at 3, p. m., left our encampment, and continued on the 
road to Comargo, Vv^here we arrived at 6, p. m. On the road we 
took, two prisoners, who had secreted their arms in the chaparral ; 
but, as the poor devils swore they were only peons, or shepherds, 
we let them go, although it looked suspicious. We arrived just in 
time to witness a grand dress-parade and review of the regular 
troops by Gen. Taylor. It was a fine evening ; the departing sun 
had lost its fiery rays, a pleasant breeze was floating through the 
air, and on the beautiful parade ground, about a mile below the 
town, there stood nearly 4000 men in solid column, Avith bright 
arms and glistening bayonets extending throughout the long hues. 
The scene was most beautiful indeed, and the execution of the 
different evolutions which they performed excited the admiration 
of all. 

" 'Twere worth ten years of peaceful life 
One glance at their array I" 

There were six regiments of infantry, the artillery battalion, 
acting as hght infantry, and Duncan's and Bragg's batteries of 
horse artillery. It was a grand and imposing sight. Gen. Tay- 
lor was saluted by the batteries of artillery, and after the review, 
preparatory to the dismissal of the parade, the officers and non- 



CAMP AT COMARGO. 103 

commissioned officers marched to the front, where stood the com- 
manding officers of the regiments, mounted on their steeds ; while 
still farther off, was seen Gen. Taylor and his staff, mounted on 
their war-horses. As the officers saluted, the music beat off in 
soul-stirring airs, and banners waved gracefully upon the breeze ; 
when, being dismissed, the different regiments repaired to their 
respective camps. This was the largest parade that had ever 
taken place since the last war. 

The night was spent with our friends, w^ho rejoiced at our re- 
turn, and after we had finished our tale of the events of the scout, 
many a song and story went the rounds, and it was long after 
midnight before we betook ourselves to rest. 



CHAPTER XII. 

Camp at Comargo — Movement of the Army — Guerrero — A Mexican Funeral^— 
San Fernando — Col. Jack Hays — His Character — The Battles of Pierde- 
nales and the Enchanted Rock — Anecdote — Departure for Serralvo — Camp 
at Mier — The Lipan Chief, "Flacco" — Camp at Punta Aguda — Arrival at 
Serralvo — Reconnoissance to Carrisito — Scout to Papagayo— Incidents — Our 
Return to Serralvo. 

Immediately on the arrival of Capt. Duncan, who reported 
favourably of the mihtary route by Serralvo, for the movement of 
the army to Monterey, orders were issued for General Worth to 
proceed with the First Brigade of his division, consisting of the 
8th Infantry and artillery battalion, to that place ; acting at the 
same time as an escort to some five hundred pack-mules, laden 
with subsistence stores. Comargo was now the most busy town 
in all Mexico ; all was hurry, bustle, and confusion. In fact, the 
place was in a perfect whirl of activity. Preparations were 
making for the whole army to move onward. The streets were 
crowded with teams and soldiers. Steamboats were daily arriving 
and departing, the ferry-boats were kept constantly crossing the 
San Juan, as well as mules and horses swimming the same ; and 
officers and soldiers were packing up, as all unnecessary bag- 
gage was to be left behind ; in short, every preparation was 
making for a long march. 

On the 19th of August, the First Brigade of the Second Division 
crossed the river, and took up its hne of march. They had not 
proceeded far, however, before a stampede took place among the 
mules ; an account of which we take from a letter of Mr. Haile, 
the well-known correspondent of the " Picayune." 

" There were some fifteen hundred pack-mules on the other 
side, ready to carry up provisions to Serralvo. About five hun- 



104 MOVEMENT OF THE ARMY. 

dred of these were making a start with the artillery battalion, 
which went ahead, when the camp-kettles, which were not pro- 
perly packed, began to rattle, and the mules commenced kicking 
up. The soldiers laughed : mules do not like to be laughed at, 
so they kicked the harder, and tried to run away. The scene 
was so. ludicrous that the soldiers could not restrain their mirth, 
and they burst forth in something like a shout. This was more 
than the mules would bear, and so they bolted in a regular stam- 
pede style, bounding over the musquit shrubs, in every direc- 
tion, throwing their burdens of flour and pork high into the 
air, and kicking them as they came down. The next morn- 
ing, the thin chaparral in which the stampede came off' was loaded 
with a strange variety of fruit. Camp-kettles hung from the 
limbs, looking as if they were of natural growth ; bags of flour 
lay in the forks, resembling large birds' nests, and the ground 
was strewn with ' plunder ' of all kinds, looking as if a thousand 
Yankee pedlars had been chased through the bushes by an army 
of Mexican robbers, and had thrown away their goods to facili- 
tate their escape. The Mexican muleteers, assisted by the sol- 
diers, soon put things to rights, and the train went on, the nose 
of each mule being tied to the tail of his predecessor. They cut 
a most ludicrous spectacle, a long train of mules, thus tied, but it 
effectually put a stop to their kicking and running away." 

During our absence on the last scout, a deputation of Mexican 
citizens came in from Guerrero, and tendered to Gen. Taylor a 
surrender of the town, which is situated on the Rio Grande, about 
forty miles from Comargo, and desired him to garrison the place, 
but the general declined so doing. They represented that in the 
vicinity there were fine mines of coal, and as it was an article 
much wanted at that time. Cols. Kinney and Peyton went up to 
examine its quality, and found it very excellent, but there were 
no means for working the mines or for transportation. 

On our return, we found that the old tent, our former quarters, 
had been taken from us. It was no great loss, however, as it 
was a miserable concern, and our mess took up quarters under 
the roof of a ruined hut, situated on one side of a lane, opposite 
to which there resided a Mexican family. In the rear of our hut 
were the ruins of a once beautiful garden. It still contained a 
fine grove of orange trees, under the green foliage of which we 
spread our blankets, to shelter us from the heavy dews of the 
night. Although the Texas Rangers performed harder service, 
and, from the nature of their duty as scouts, were subjected to 
greater hardships and privations than any other corps of the army, 
yet they were always ready and wilhng, and never murmured at 
their fare. Our horses were frequently put upon half rations of 



MEXICAN FUNERAL. 105 

corn, and the men were obliged to buy grass from the Mexicans, 
at ten cents a bundle, which came out of our own pockets, as we 
were not permitted to graze our horses in their enclosures, and 
the grass on the road-side was nearly consumed. 

One morning, just as we had finished our breakfast, our atten- 
tion was attracted by the loud shrieks of our neighbours, and on 
looking around, we perceived several women running out from 
the jacal opposite, wringing their hands, puUing their hair, and 
screaming and wailing with the most heart-rending bursts of grief. 
We soon learned that their mother, a very old woman, had just 
died, which was the cause of their lament. This shrieking and 
howling was kept up all day, until the afternoon, when the fune- 
ral took place. There was no coffin ; the corpse was merely 
wrapped in a shroud, and placed on a bier, with a cloth thrown 
over it. The priest, dressed in his robes, Vfrith his shorn head 
exposed to the sun, attended by a little boy on each side, followed 
the bier. Then came two Mexicans, wrapped in large Spanish 
cloaks, with black, broad-brimmed sombreros, who acted as mourn- 
ers, followed by the friends of the deceased. The procession 
moved to the church, where the priest said mass over the corpse, 
w^hen they proceeded to the place of burial. At night, another 
wail of lament burst forth, which exceeded the first, — and this was 
kept up, night and morning, for some two or three days. They 
sometimes would break out in the middle of the night, and awaken 
the whole camp around, with their piercing screams. It cer- 
tainly exceeded all the outward "shows of grief" that we ever saw. 

On the 21st, Gen. Twiggs arrived with the 2d Dragoons, and 
Capts. Ridgely and Taylor's batteries of light artillery ; also, 
Major Gen. Butler, and Brig. Gens. Gluitman and Hamer, and 
other officers of the volunteers. Our time for which we had been 
mustered into the service, three months, had now expired, and 
the men were paid ofT accordingly. Many of the company, be- 
lieving that there was to be no more fighting, were anxious to 
return to their homes and famifies, who, living on the frontier of 
Texas, were left in a manner unprotected ; besides others who 
had become dissatisfied, left the company and refused to re-enfist. 

On the 25th, the Second Brigade of the Second Division, the 5th 
and 7th Infantry, crossed the San Juan, on their way to Serralvo. 
On the 26th, Col. Jack Hays, with an escort of twenty men, arrived 
from China, where he had left his regiment encamped. The regi- 
ment had been out on a long scout, ever since it left Matamoras, 
and passed through San Fernando, on its way to China. 

For a description of the town of San Fernando, and the follow- 
ing incidents, we are indebted to Mr. Lumsden, of the " Pica- 
yune," whose letter we copy entire ; 



106 COLONEL HAYS AT SAN FERNANDO. 

San Fernando, Mexico, Aug. 15, 1846. 

" Dear Friends, — As you perceive, I am in San Fernando, a 
pretty little town of some three thousand inhabitants, situated in a 
hilly, if not mountainous, district, upon the banks of a deep and 
swift running river, bearing the name by which the town is 
called. It is distant from Matamoras ninety miles, in a south- 
westerly direction. 

*' Col. Hays's regiment reached this place at an early hour on 
the morning of the 13th, and found every thing quiet. A small 
number of Mexican troops who were quartered here, left the day 
before we arrived, knowing the approach of the regiment. When 
Col. Hays was within two leagues of San Fernando he was met 
by three messengers, bearing a communication from the authori- 
ties of the place, informing him that there would be no opposition 
to his entrance into the town, and begging that the property of the 
citizens might not be molested, &c. The colonel passed quietly 
through the western skirts of the town, and made his encampment 
about one-fourth of a mile off. After arranging the camp, he 
went into the town and had an interview with the alcalde, dehver- 
ing a proclamation from Gen. Taylor, and telhng the official that 
his intention was not to allow the citizens or their property to be 
disturbed in any manner ; that he came not to make war against 
the citizen, but only against the soldier. The ' talk' of the colonel, 
through an interpreter, seemed to give infinite satisfaction to a 
crowd of persons who looked on and listened, apparently as much 
interested as if it were a case of life and death to them, and no 
doubt their fears had pictured it as being one. All business was 
suspended when the regiment arrived, the doors were nearly all 
closed, and one could only get an occasional glimpse at the in- 
habitants through the bars of their windows. 

" On the night previous to our entrance into San Fernando, the 
regiment encamped one league from the town, and the picket- 
guard was thrown as far forward as the borders of the place. 
Just before day, a man, armed and on horseback, rode into the 
line of the guard, moving cautiously towards the camp of Col. 
Hays. He was hailed repeatedly, but made no answer. An 
attempt was made by two of the guard to arrest him, but he put 
spurs to his horse and dashed away. The guard fired one shot at 
the horse and another at the rider ; the horse fell dead, being shot 
through the neck, and it is beheved the rider fared no better. A 
sword, and saddle and bridle, were the trophies of the exploit. 
There seems to be no doubt that the man was one of the troops 
who left San Fernando the day before our arrival. When the 
two shots were fired, the guard heard the sound of horses' feet, 
and it is probable that a detachment had been sent back from the 



QUARTERS AT DON RAMON's. 107 

Mexicans to take a peep at the Rangers, and to report proceed- 
ings. But they didn't catch Hays's men napping, nor will they 
be apt to, let them try it when they may. 

" The regiment will take up the line of march again to-morrow, 
and move for a town called China, about one hundred and fifty 
miles from this place. The chances for a fight do not seem so 
favourable now as were thought. Col. Hays cannot hear of any 
force that he can meet, and it is the impression in the regiment 
that the Mexicans will not make a stand this side of Monterey. 
This, however, is not certain, and something may yet turn up a 
skirmish, and give the colonel and his ' boys' a chance. China 
lies between Comargo and Monterey, and at China, or the latter 
place, the regiment will probably join the main body of the army. 
This, however, will depend upon the communications between 
Col. Hays and Gen. Taylor. Further than this I cannot furnish 
you with any army news. What they are doing on the Rio 
Grande, or in other quarters, I know nothing of. 

"I have been fortunate enough to be placed in a mess with 
four gentlemen from your city — Messrs. Foucher and Musson, 
former aids to Gen. Smith, Mr. Trudeau, quartermaster of the 
Louisiana brigade before its disbandment, and Mr. Theodore 
Lewis, brother of your popular sheriff'. While here, Col. Hays 
has kindly permitted us to make our quarters in the town. The 
transition from the camp fife to our present situation is most 
agreeable, and seems more like a dream than reahty. We are 
staying with the family of Senor Don Ramon de la Gerza Flores,* 
occupying a splendid mansion, where we are most politely attended 
to by our host and his lady. ' Situated as I am,' it is indeed diffi- 
cult to imagine that we are in an enemy's country. Senor Don 
Ramon, &c., &c., is immensely rich, and lives in the finest style. 
And here your humble servant and his messmates are comforta- 
bly stored away, each of us with a separate bed, servants to 
attend us, and ' living in clover,' as if there were no war between 
the country of our host and our own government. At night we 
are treated to sweet music, struck from the trembhng chords of 
the guitar and harp by the delicate and tapering fingers of a fair 
senorita, while we sit quietly and puff' our dgaritos in the cool- 
ing breeze. Is it not enough to make one feel at home ? But 
this state of things is not to last long — to-morrow 'the jig's up,* 
and 'sic transit gloria,'' 

( " The banks of the river at this place are of immense height— 
(probably one hundred feet — and the view afforded from their 

I * It is not a little singular that afterwards we picked up the visiting card 
jof Seiior Don Ramon in the streets of Monterey, which we kept for its novelty. 
I See page 221, where this is referred to. 



108 COLONEL HAYS. 

bluffs is truly picturesque. Look in whatever direction you may, 
and you see the distant hills all covered with the green chaparral 
and various coloured shrubbery, the winding mountain road, and 
the dashing, rushing waters of the Rio San Fernando. Beneath 
you, sporting in the limpid element, you behold men and boys, 
and women with their chiquitos — as the babies are called — all 
splashing and swimming about like so many tritons, mermaids 
and little minnows. This last sight is one which Americans are 
not accustomed to at home, but here it appears to be as common a 
matter of fact as going to church. 

" By-the-by, talking of going to church, reminds me — if the noise 
does not — that the bells are ringing a merry peel. There is 
something very interesting to take place, and I'll just step in and 
see the ceremony. So adieu." 

We had heard so much of Col. Hays, that we were anxious to 
be introduced to the commander of our regiment. The quarters 
of Lieut. Forbes Britton, commissary of subsistence, was at that 
time the general rendezvous of all the officers. And go when 
you would to his quarters, from his generous and hospitable feel- 
ings, all were sure to meet with a kind reception. On this occa- 
sion, as we entered Lieut. Britton's quarters, we saw a group of 
gentlemen sitting around, among whom were Gen. Lamar, Gov. 
Henderson, Gen. Cazeno, and Gen. McCloud, all distinguished 
men of Texas, whose names are enrolled on the page of its his- 
tory. As we cast our eye around the group, we tried to single 
out the celebrated partisan chief, and we were much surprised 
when we were presented to a dehcate looking young man, of about 
five feet eight inches in stature, and told that he was our colonel. 
He was dressed very plainly, and wore a thin jacket, with the 
usual Texian hat, broad brimmed with a round top, and loose open 
collar, with a black handkerchief tied neghgently around his neck. 
He has dark brown hair, and a large and brilliant hazel eye, 
which is restless in conversation, and speaks a language of its 
own not to be mistaken, with very prominent and heavy arched 
eyebrows. His broad, deep forehead is well developed; he has a 
\ Roman nose, with a finely curved nostril ; a large mouth, with the 
corners tending downwards ; a short upper lip, while the under 
one projects shghtly, indicative of great firmness and determina- 
tion. He is naturally of a fair complexion, but from long expo- 
sure on the frontier, has become dark and weather-beaten. He 
has rather a thoughtful and care-worn expression, from the con- 
stant exercise of his faculties ; and his long acquaintance with 
dangers and difficulties, and the responsibilities of a commander, 
have given him an habitual frown when his features are in repose. 
He wears no whiskers, which gives him a still more youthful ap- 




Colonel Jack Hayes, from a Daguerreotype bv NoeselJe, 
New Orleans. — p. lOS. " 



EXPLOITS OF COLONEL HAYS. 109 

pearance, and his manners are bland and very prepossessing, from 
his extreme modesty. Col. John Coffee Hays was born in Wilson 
county, Tennessee, and was named after the gallant Gen. Coffee 
who commanded a brigade at the battle of New Orleans. He is 
now about twenty-nine years of age. In 1837, when only nine- 
teen, he emigrated to San Antonio, Texas, as a surveyor, and was 
employed on the frontier in surveying lands. His long life on the 
frontier has given him a hardy and iron constitution, and there are 
few men more able to stand hardships and privation than Col. 
Hays. His extraordinary talent as a commander early developed 
itself, and he was chosen captain of a company on several expe- 
ditions against the Indians, in which he was very successful. His 
reputation as a warrior rose so r&pidly, that the Texian Congress 
made him captain of a spy company ; and in 1840, or thereabout, 
he was made commander of the frontier, with the rank of major. 

Were an account of the Indian fights, skirmishes, and adven- 
tures of Col. Hays to be given to the world, it would fill a volume, 
and the work would be looked upon rather as the effusion of a fer- 
tile imagination, consisting of legendary tales, and the adventures 
of some fictitious knight-errant, than to be the faithful account of 
the achievements of a man, hving and moving among us, and that, 
too, comparatively unknown. But that "truth is stranger than 
fiction," is exemplified daily ; and we are almost incHned to be- 
lieve, that there are but few things which exist in the imagination 
of man, that could not, with the proper spirit, perseverance, and 
determination, be reduced to living reahty. In order to give to 
our readers some idea of the character and bold daring of this 
border chief, and the estimation in which he was held by both 
friend and foe, we must beg leave here to relate a few of his ex- 
ploits. 

It was some time in the month of July, 1844, that he was en- 
gaged in one of the most remarkable Indian fights perhaps on 
record. Remarkable, not for the numbers engaged, nor the dura- 
tion of the conflict, but from the fearful odds against the Rangers. 
At the time we speak of. Hays was surrounded by as gallant a 
little band- of noble and brave men, numbering only fourteen, as 
ever fought for the hberty of any land. Among this Spartan band 
were the names of a Gillespie, a Walker, and a Chevaher, whose 
noble deeds have since made them known to the world. On this 
occasion. Hays had gone out with his men some eighty miles from 
San Antonio, towards the river Pierdenales, for the purpose of 
ascertaining the position of the Indians, and to watch their move- 
ments. On arriving near the river, they discovered some ten or 
fifteen Comanche warriors, well mounted, who immediately made 
demonstrations of fight. As the Rangers advanced upon them, 

10 



110 EXPLOITS OF COLONEL HAYS. 

however, they would retreat, and thus endeavoured to lead tho 
Texians towards a ridge of thick undergrowth. But Hays was 
too well acquainted with the Indian character to be caught by their 
snares ; and he immediately judged by their mancEuvering, that 
an ambuscade had been laid for him, and with difficuky restrained 
the impetuosity of his " boys" from advancing to the attack. He 
then marched around the copse, where he supposed the Indians 
to be concealed, and drew up on another ridge, separated from 
their position by a deep ravine. He had occupied this situation 
but a short time, when the Indians discovered who he was, and 
knowing their man, gave up the hope of catching him by strata- 
gem. The Indians then showed themselves to the number of 
seventy-five, and challenged him to the contest. Hays accepted 
the challenge, and signified to them that he would meet them, and 
immediately started down the hill with his men, towards the In- 
dians, moving at the same time in the slowest possible pace, until 
reaching the bottom of the ravine, where he was hid from the view 
of the Indians, by the brow of the hill upon which they were 
formed. Then turning at full speed down the ravine, followed by 
his little troop, he turned the point of the ridge, came up in the 
rear of the enemy, and charged their column, when every eye 
of the Indian phalanx was looking in momentary expectation of 
seeing him rise the hill in their front ! His first fire upon them, 
with short rifles, which being deadly, threw them into utter con- 
fusion. The yells, imprecations, and war-whoops that filled the 
air after the report of the rifles, would have blanched many a 
cheek as it echoed wildly over the plain. But there stood Hays 
and his gallant men as firm and undaunted as the rock. The In- 
dians seeing their great superiority in numbers, soon rallied, when 
the Ranger ordered his men to threw down their rifles, and pre- 
pare with their five-shooters to receive the charge of the enemy. 
In order to resist attack on all sides, as the Indians were surround- 
ing them, Hays formed his men in a circle, fronting outwards, 
being still mounted on their horses, and for fifteen or twenty 
minutes maintained that position, never firing a shot until the In- 
dians came within the length of their lances of them. Their aim 
was sure, and every fire brought down a warrior. Some twenty- 
one of the red men were killed on that spot, before they desisted, 
and then the Rangers, changing their ground, charged them in 
turn. The fight lasted for nearly an hour, the two parties alter- 
nately charging each other. By this time the Texians had ex- 
hausted the loads in their five-shooting pistols, and the chief was 
again rallying his warriors for one more desperate struggle. 

Hays's numbers were now reduced, and the crisis was an awful 
one. He saw that their only salvation was to kill the Indian chief, 



EXPLOITS OF COLONEL HAYS. Ill 

and demanded of his men, if any one had a charge left. The 
lamented Capt. Gillespie replied that he had reserved his rifle. 

"Dismount, then," said Hays, "and make sure work of that 
chief." 

Although speared through the body, the gallant Gillespie dis- 
mounted, and at the crack of his rifle, the chief fell headlong from 
his horse. Panic struck, the Indians fled in dismay, pursued by 
the Texians, who gained a complete victory. On the battle-field 
of Pierdenales lay some thirty odd of their dead ; how many were 
wounded, was not known. On the part of the Rangers, two were 
killed, and some four or five wounded, among whom were Gilles- 
pie and Walker, since celebrated in American history, who were 
both speared through the body. 

At another time. Hays went out with a party of some fifteen or 
twenty men, upon the frontier of Texas, then many miles west of 
the white settlements, for the purpose of surveying and locating 
lands in the vicinity of a place well known as the "Enchanted 
Rock." We are unable to give to the reader the traditionary 
cause why this place was so named, but nevertheless, the Indians 
had a great awe, amounting almost to reverence for it, and would 
tell many legendary tales connected with it and the fate of a few 
brave warriors, the last of a tribe now extinct, who defended them- 
selves there for many years as in a strong castle, against the attacks 
of their hostile brethren. But they were finally overcome and 
totally annihilated, and ever since, the "Enchanted Rock" has 
been looked upon as the exclusive property of these phantom war- 
riors. This is one of the many tales which the Indians tell con- 
cerning it. The rock forms the apex of a high, round hill, very 
rugged and difficult of ascent. In the centre there is a hollow, in 
the shape of a bowl, and sufficiently large to allow a small party 
of men to lie in it, thus forming a small fort, the projecting and 
elevated sides serving as a protection. 

Not far from the base of this hill. Hays and his men, at the time 
of the expedition spoken of, which occurred in the year 1841, or 
'42, were attacked by a large force of Indians. When the fight 
commenced, Hays being some distance from his party, was cut 
off* from them, and being closely pressed by the Indians, made 
good his retreat to the top of the hill. Reaching the " Enchanted 
Rock," he there intrenched himself, and determined to sell his 
life dearly, for he had scarcely a gleam of hope left to escape. 
The Indians who were in pursuit, upon arriving near the summit, 
set up a most hideous howl, and after surrounding the spot, pre- 
pared for the charge ; being bent upon taking this " Devil Jack," 
as they called him, at all hazards, for they knew who was the 
commander. As they would approach, Hays would rise, and 



112 EXPLOITS OF COLONEL HAYS. 

level his rifle ; knowing his unerring aim, they would drop back. 
In this way he kept them at bay for nearly an hour ; the Indians 
howling around him all the while, like so many wolves. But 
finally becoming emboldened, as he had not yet fired his rifle, 
they approached so near that it became necessary for him to go 
to work in earnest. So, as they continued to advance, he dis- 
charged his rifle, and then seizing his five-shooter, he felled them 
on all sides ; thus keeping them ofl', until he could reload. In 
this manner he defended himself for three long hours, when the 
Indians becoming furiously exasperated, rushed in mass, and 
gained the top, on one side of the hill ; his men, who had heard 
the crack of his rifle, and had been fighting most desperately to 
reach their leader, now succeeded in breaking through the file of 
Indians on the other side, and arrived just in time to save him. 

" This," said the Texian, who told us the story, " was one of 
* Jack's^ most narrow escapes, and he considers it one of the 
tightest little places that he ever was in. The Indians who had 
believed for a long time that he bore a charmed fife, were then 
more than ever convinced of the fact." 

So many were the stories that went the rounds in camp of his 
perilous expeditions, his wild and daring adventures, and his cool 
and determined bravery, that when we saw the man who held 
such sway over his fellow-beings, we were first inclined to believe 
that we had been deceived. But when we saw him afterwards 
in the field, we then knew him to be the " intrepid Hays." So 
great is his reputation among the Mexicans, that he is everywhere 
known as " Capitan Jack.*^ Notwithstanding his rigid disci- 
pline, for his word is law among his men, yet off duty he is a 
bland and pleasant companion, and the men familiarly call him 
Jack, though there is that about the man, which prevents one from 
taking the shghtest liberty with him. 

On one occasion, some Indians came into San Antonio, to make 
a treaty. Several chiefs were standing together, and had singled 
out Hays from several others, and were conversing about him. At 
last two of them approached, and asked him why it was that he 
would go out alone, which was frequently the case, and run such 
risks without the chance of aid ? 

" ' Blue Wing' and I," said the chief, pointing to his compa- 
nion, " no fraid go to hell together — ' Capitan Jack,' great brave- 
no fraid go to hell by himself." By which the chief meant, that 
Hays was not afraid to go anywhere alone, which was certainly a 
great compliment. 

The First Division was now making active preparations for its 
departure. Large wagon trains were leaving daily for Serralvo, 
escorted by the dragoons. A thousand rumours were afloat in 



EXPLOITS OF COLONEL HAYS. 113 

regard to the Mexican forces. First, we could hear that they 
were fortifying Monterey — then, that Monterey was not defended, 
and that they were going to make a stand of it at Saltillo — while 
again it was the opinion of others, that we would not meet the 
enemy at all. The excitement, however, was general with the 
Mexicans, as well as ourselves. Large parties of the latter were 
out pressing the rancheros and peons into service, and every 
thing indicated that a grand movement was nrnking by both par- 
ties. The Volunteers, composing the Third Division, under Maj. 
Gen. Butler, consisting of the Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, and 
Mississippi regiments, were daily arriving. On the 30th, our 
company was again re-organized, and on the 31st, we were mus- 
tered into the service for three months more. Orders had been 
issued during the week for our departure, and we had been occu- 
pied getting our horses shod, our saddles fixed, and, in short, mak- 
ing every final arrangement for the most active service. This time 
there was to be no return, until some decisive blow was struck. 

On the first of September, our company was ready, as well as 
that of Capt. Gillespie's, and at 9, a. m., we crossed the Rio San 
Juan, and proceeded on together, until we arrived at Lake Guar- 
dado, where we encamped. Here we found Capt. May's dra- 
goons, detachments of which had been escorting the trains from 
Comargo to Serralvo and back. After dinner, we were again in 
the saddle, and proceeded on to our old camp ground, twelve miles 
from Mier, where we encamped for the night. At daybreak on 
the 2d, we continued our way, arrived at Mier at 8, a. m., and en- 
camped under the shade-trees. We found the place looking very 
lonely and deserted — most of the Mexican men had left. No 
troops occupied the place, Capt. Vinton's company having left for 
Serralvo. The principal stores, too, were closed, and there was to 
be seen scarcely any signs of life or activity. Here we stayed 
till 4, p. M., when we saddled up, and took the road to Punta 
I Aguda. We continued on till 8, p. m., when we encamped by the 
I side of a creek, fifteen miles from Mier. The day had been ex- 
1 cessively warm, and our road lay over a succession of high barren 
! ridges, which made the travelling very tiresome. After the guard 
j was posted, camp-fires were hghted, and the different messes went 
jto work preparing supper, and grooming and feeding their horses. 
Having finished their meal, the men betook themselves to rest, and 
gradually the hum of the camp was lost in quiet slumber. Two 
of our mess, however, not feeling inchned to sleep, lay awake, 
'talking low to each other, while a third was sitting up mending 
ihis chaparral-torn unmentionables. It was a most charming moon- 
JHght night, and the scene that presented itself was wild and novel 
in the extreme. The bank of the creek, by which we had en- 

10* 



114 THE LIPAN CHIEF. 

camped, lay some distance off from the road ; it was a beautiful 
level green, surrounded on all sides, except that of the creek, 
which presented a fine view, by thick chaparral Avhich concealed 
us entirely from persons passing on the road. The men lay in 
groups around on their blankets, wrapped in sleep, with their 
horses tied near them, and save the low undertone of the wakeful 
few, and the firm tread of the sentinels, all was as cahn and still 
as the silvery hghl, which shed its soft rays upon the scene. We 
had felt restless ourself, and were reclining on our elbow, contem- 
plating the beauty of the landscape, when our attention was at- 
tracted by our two messmates, who were engaged discussing the 
relative merits of the individuals of different nations, in regard to 
their capacity to excel in the service in which we were then en- 
listed — that was, as scouts or spies. 

" The Americans make very good spies," said Jack McM ; 

"but the Mexicans excel them, and I think the Indians are supe- 
rior to either. The keen perception, the circumspection, untiring 
patience and self-denial, and indomitable perseverance so abso- 
lutely essential to success, the Indians possess to such an extra- 
ordinary degree, that they seem fitted by nature to the task. 
Now, to illustrate my meaning," continued Jack, " let me tell 
you an incident that fell under my own observation, which will 
prove to you that as a spy^ the Indian is without a rival." 

" Some years ago, I was a private in Jack Hays's company of 
Rangers. Our command was stationed at San Antonio, and as the 
Mexican robbing parties had been exceedingly troublesome along 
the frontier, our captain determined, as a means of retaliation for 
the injury they had committed, to strike a blow at some of the 
towns on the Rio Grande. Loredo was the point decided upon as 
the most suitable for our attack. All our preparations were quick- 
ly made, and we procured for our guide a man intimately ac- 
quainted with the whole country lying between the river San 
Antonio and the Rio Grande. Just as we were about starting, the 
Lipan chief, ' Flacco,' volunteered to accompany us, and he was 
most wilHngly received into our party. Several times during our 
journey, we found our guide sorely puzzled in regard to our route, 
and on one cloudy day, when it was impossible to take a course 
by the sun, we were completely lost as to the direction to be pur- 
sued. On these occasions, ' Flacco' was called upon to give his 
opinion as to the route we ought to travel, and without the shghtest 
hesitation, he would point out the proper course, and we never in 
\ny instance found him at fault. 

" As we expected to see hard service on the Rio Grande, Capt. 
Uays wished to save our horses as much as possible on the way 
out, ind therefore made each day's ride as easy as the nature of 



THE LIPAN CHIEF. 115 

the case would permit. * Flacco' could not understand the reason 
of our slow progress ; and one day, when we had stopped earlier 
than usual, in a pleasant grove, to graze our horses and prepare 
our dinners, I noticed him leaning against a tree, with his arms 
folded across his breast, looking around him with a smile of con- 
tempt. I asked him if he would eat something with our mess. 

" 'No,' said he, drawing himself up proudly. ' No — warriors 
never eat much on war-path. Too much eat — too much eat,' 
said he, shaking his head thoughtfully. ' Capitan Hays great 
chief, but American eat too much on war-path.' 

" On one occasion, as we were about to cross a river, our keen- 
sighted captain discovered horse-tracks upon the opposite bank, 
and calling ' Flacco' to him, desired him to swim the river, and 
find out if the tracks were those of wild horses, or made by steeds 
with riders on their backs. 

" The chief plunged into the stream with his horse, and soon 
reached the opposite bank, and then observing the trail attentively 
for a few moments, he struck off into the chaparral in a slow trot. 
In about half an hour he returned and reported that he had seen 
no one, but that the horses, whose track he had followed, had been 
ridden ; that one of them was a bay horse, and the other a gray, 
and that their riders were Indians. 

" Capt. Hays seemed to place great reliance upon the statement ; 
but I turned round with an incredulous air, and asked a companion 
how the d — 1 the chief could learn all these facts if he had seen 
nothing but the trail. 

" ' Oh, it is easy enough,' said he, ' for them Ingins to tell any 
thing, when once they set their eagle eyes upon "yVesA signsJ'^ ' 

" ' But how was it done V I inquired, for I was then green in the 
woods. 

" ' How ? why, ri] tell you, youngster. You see when 
" Flacco" first went over, he looked at the tracks on the bank. 
Now, a loose horse, after he is done drinking, always stops on the 
top of the bank to look around and nip a few mouthfuls of grass. 
Well, as soon as the Ingin found that the horses had gone straight 
on, he knew that they must have had riders on them. Then he 
followed the trail until he came to some place where they stopped ; 
there he found the place where the horses had rolled after they 
were unsaddled, or rubbed themselves against a tree. In this way 
he found out their colour by the hair they had rubbed off; and 
then, if he did not find out by the camp itself, he knew by the 
tufts of buffalo hair sticking to the bushes, that the riders must be 
Ingins, for no one else rides in the chaparral wrapped in buffalo 
robes, except Ingins. Ain't it all clar now V 

"Ever since that," said Jack, "I have been perfectly satisfied 



116 ARRIVAL AT SERRALVO. 

that the Indians were the best spies in the world ; and, of all the 
prairie tribes, I consider the Comanches the most superior race." 

Jack having here ended his story, and he of our mess having 
finished repairing his nether garment " by the light of the moon," 
we all dropped off to sleep. 

At day-light, on the morning of the 3d, we were in the saddle, 
and continued our way towards Punta Aguda, where we arrived at 
10, A. M. — distance thirty-five miles from Mier, and fifteen miles 
from Serralvo. Here we found the 5th and 7th Infantry encamped. 
We had had a very fatiguing ride, and our horses had suffered 
very much with the heat. We encamped on the banks of a 
beautiful Httle stream, on the other side of which was a fine field 
of grass, which was a grateful refreshment to our horses. The 
Mexicans came into our camp, bringing us melons, dried figs, and 
other fruit, which served for dessert after our dinner. Here we 
saw several of our old acquaintances, whom we met at the fan- 
dango, when we were last at this place. Although they appeared 
friendly, yet they did not seem to relish our return very much. 
Our horse had become very lame, and it was feared we could not 
proceed with the company. At 5, p. m., however, we were 
ordered to " saddle up," and not Hking the idea of being left be- 
hind, we concluded to go on, thinking our horse would get over it. 
We rode on, then, with the rear-guard ; but after travelling a 
mile or two, it was found impossible to keep up ; so, one of our 
messmates joining us, we were left behind. We know of no 
situation so unpleasant, so trying or vexatious, as to be travelling in 
an enemy's country, and have your horse become suddenly lame. 
A man with a lame horse is no better than a wounded man, for he 
is of no account. We travelled on alone, then, at a slow pace ; 
night had already set in, and it appeared as if we would never 
reach our destination. Our companion was sure we were lost; 
but, having travelled the road before, we kept on, feeling confi- 
dent that we were right, there being no ranchos on the road to 
inquire at. At last Ave crossed a well-known stream, and ascend- 
ed the hill on which stood Serralvo, where we arrived at about 10 
o'clock, p. M. Here we found our company encamped on the 
other side of the town ; and, being much fatigued, we staked out 
our horses, and lay down on the rocky ground, which was covered 
with little grass burs, and soon fell asleep. 

On the morning of the 4th, we were awakened by drums and 
fifes beating the reveille. Gen. Worth's Division was all here, 
except the 5th and 7th Infantry, which was expected daily from 
Punta Aguda, as soon as they should be relieved by other troops 
on their way up. Our company marched down to a most lovely 
spot, and encamped on the banks of the beautiful Rio Alamo. 



SCOUT TO CARRISITO. 117 

Orders soon after came from head-quarters for a detachment of 
twenty of our men, to proceed as far as Carrisito, about seven 
miles distant, to make a reconnoissance. Three armed Mexicans 
were captured the night before, and it was supposed a considera- 
ble force were somewhere in the vicinity. At 10, a. m., the 
detachment returned, having obtained important information con- 
cerning the enemy. Orders were immediately issued for the two 
companies — McCulloch's and Gillespie's — to get ready for a scout. 

Our horse being too lame to travel, we procured another from 
a friend, and at about 4, p. m., both companies, composed, in all, 
of eighty well-mounted men, were in the saddle. The pack- 
mules, and every description of baggage, were left behind, the 
men merely carrying in their wallets two days' provision. Lieut. 
Meade, of the Topographical Engineers, accompanied us to exa- 
mine the road. We also took with us a Mexican, for a guide, 
whom we mounted on one of our horses. In order to throw the 
Mexican spies off the scent, we struck off to the right of the Ser- 
ralvo mountains, towards Salinas, about two miles ; then crossed 
through the chaparral, and took the road to the left, leading to 
Marin. Just before sundown, a Mexican was seen ahead, who, 
on discovering us, took after some cattle, and pretended to be 
driving them ; but the ruse would not do. He then attempted to 
run, but finding so many fast horses and sharp rifles after him, he 
made a halt, and came up, pretending that he was a vacara, or 
cow-driver. After threatening the fellow with death, we ascer- 
tained that Canales, with about five hundred rancheros, and Col. 
Carrasco, with between two and three hundred regular cavalry, 
were at Papagayo, about thirty-five miles distant. This agreed 
with the information obtained early in the morning. Soon after 
this we passed Rancho Carrisito, and wound our way around the 
Serralvo mountains about six miles further, when we encamped 
near a bold creek. Here we prepared supper, and fed our horses. 
Our guide was then sent back afoot, with a note to Gen. Worth, 
informing him of the situation and force of the enemy. 

After resting an hour, we took up our march over the mountains 
through a wild and lonely district of country, with occasional deep 
ravines and ledges of rock. Ridge after ridge was crossed, and 
the mountains loomed up in the darkness on every side, (for there 
was no moon,) presenting a scene of grandeur which was height- 
ened by the intense interest of the expedition. At midnight, after 
a hard ride over one of the most rocky and hilly roads that we had 
yet encountered, w^e arrived within two miles of the enemy's camp, 
and stopped at a rancho called Papagayo, (the Spanish name of a 
flower like a tulip,) which, being surrounded by mountains, forms 
a cup, from which we suppose it takes its name. The Mexi- 



118 SCOUT TO PAPAGAYO. 

cans at the rancho were aroused from their slumbers, and sur- 
prised to find so large a body of men at their doors. After a 
great deal of cross-examination we obtained some farther infor- 
mation from an old man here, and the advance guard was 
sent on ahead to try to ascertain the position of the enemy. 
We learned that two Mexican couriers had passed at full speed 
during the night, carrying the information of our advance. A 
fight was certainly expected, and throughout our whole Hne all 
was as still as night. Here we remained about an hour, when the 
advance guard came in and reported that they had met the picket- 
guard of the enemy, and, after a hard chase, had run them nearly 
to their own camp, where they made good their safety. The tro- 
phies of the night consisted of a lance, which one of the Mexican 
cavalry dropped in the race. After a consultation, it was thought 
most prudent to make a retrograde movement, as the position as 
well as the force of the enemy was found to be very strong. We 
fell back, then, about three miles, where we found a strong natural 
position. It was determined to remain here until daylight and 
await the attack of the enemy, which was now confidently ex- 
pected. A strong picket-guard was posted, and the men ordered 
to be in readiness at a moment's warning. Our horses stood sad- 
dled, and the men lay down on the hard rocky ground, holding 
their horses by their bridles, or cabestros. 

Of all the mental agony of which the soul is capable of feehng, 
there is, perhaps, none so intense, painful, or exciting, as the feel- 
ing of suspense ; for, unhke any other, it has no vent, no relief, 
but by the actual transpiring of events, to be decided only by the 
fate of time. We do not mean, however, that the anguish is as 
great on all occasions, for it is the cause which governs in all cases 
the extent of our feelings. Here we lay, then, for three hours, 
anxiously awaiting the attack of the enemy. The men were 
much fatigued from the hard ride, and could not help dozing, until 
gradually becoming tired of watching, many fell asleep. As the 
day broke on the morning of the 5th, the picket-guard came in and 
reported that the enemy had made no demonstration of attack. 
The men were then aroused, and ordered to mount. Springing 
to our feet, with our guns in our hands, we were in the saddle 
again on the homeward track. At 8, a. m., we encamped at the 
creek, where we had stopped the night before, and prepared break- 
fast. On the road we made two more prisoners. About noon, 
when near the rancho Carrisito, we discovered a large force ahead, 
which we took to be Mexicans, but which proved to be a detach- 
ment of the artillery battalion, numbering about 300 men, under Col. 
Childs, which had been despatched by Gen. Worth to our rehef; 
who, on receiving from the guide the information of the superiority 



119 

of the enemy's forces, and fearing we might be cut off, sent this 
force to cover our retreat. There was no occasion, however, for 
their assistance. Had they but proceeded with us at first, we 
might have routed the enemy and made some important cap- 
tures. We all returned together, and the soldiers were evi- 
dently disappointed, as they expected to have had a frolic with 
us. The prisoner that was taken on the first night of our march 
proved to be one of Canales' spies, who had been sent to ascer- 
tain our force at Serralvo ; he was a cunning, shrewd fellow, by 
the name of Heronimo, and acted many parts during the cam- 
paign, which we shall have occasion to notice hereafter. 

On our return to camp, we found many old friends who had 
arrived since we left. It was a fine moonlight night, and, after 
taking a walk in the plaza, where the band was playing some 
sweet melting airs, we retired to our quarters. 



CHAPTER XIII. 

Camp at Serralvo — Gen. Ampudia's Proclamation — Its Effect — The Mexican 
Feeling — The Alcalde's Fandango — Scenes and Incidents at Punta Aguda — 
The Third Brigade on the qui vive — Arrival of Gen. Taylor and First and 
Third Divisions — Orders for the March of the Army — Departure of the Ad- 
vance — Arrival at Papagayo — Discovery of the Enemy — The expected At- 
tack — Scout to Ramos — Skirmish with the Mexican Cavalry — The Chase 
and Retreat — Our Return to Camp — Arrival of Gen. Taylor and the First 
Division — Camp Scene — Movements of the Second Division, &c. 

On Sunday, the 6th, Gen. Smith's brigade, composed of the 5th 
and 7th Infantry, of the Second Division, to which was attached 
Capt. Blanchard's company of Louisiana volunteers, came up from 
Punta Aguda, having been reheved by the Third Brigade of the 
First Division. Rumors were now rife throughout the country 
concerning the two armies. Gen. Ampudia had arrived at Mon- 
terey, and issued a proclamation threatening all with death who 
should in any way assist the American army. We here give a 
copy of the pronunciamento : 



Considering that the hour has arrived, when energetic measures 
and precautionary dispositions should be taken, to hberate the de- 
partments of the east from the rapacity of the Anglo-Americans, 
and for attending to the rights of the people and the usages of war, 
every person who may prove a traitor to his country, or a spy of 
'the enemy, shall suffer death without any remission of sentence ; 
I and, taking into consideration that it is my bounden duty, to put an 
(end to the evils which have been caused by the contraband trade 



120 ampudia's proclamation. 

that has been indiscriminately carried on by the usurpers of our 
sacred territory, and using the facukies which the laws have em- 
powered me with, I decree as follows : 

1. Every native, or foreigner, who shall, either directly or indi- 
rectly, voluntarily aid or assist the enemy in any manner whatso- 
ever, shall suffer death by being shot. 

2. All those who, after the pubhcation of this proclamation, shall 
continue to traffic in contraband articles with the enemy, shall suf- 
fer the same penalty named in the preceding article. 

3. The authorities of every branch of the public service will 
take especial care, under the strictest responsibility, that this arti- 
cle shall be rigorously complied with. 

4. This proclamation should produce popular action among our 
citizens, who are under the obligation to make known any infrac- 
tion of it, and all citizens are empowered to apprehend criminals 
and deliver them over to the judicial authorities ; and that all 
persons maybe duly notified, and that none may plead ignorance, 
I order the publication of this proclamation, and that due circula- 
tion shall be given it. 

Done at the head-quarters of the army, in Monterey, August 
31, 1846. Pedro de Ampudia. 

This had its effect upon the Mexicans, and an evident change 
was to be seen. Indeed, they had been growing more surly and 
hostile ever since our advance from Comargo, and all their smiles 
and apparent friendship had been only bought with gold. Many 
of the families had left the place. Notwithstanding that, there is 
a neat church here, yet no service was held to-day. A requisi- 
tion had been made upon the alcalde for all the corn in the 
vicinity ; and, at the risk of his head, for the sake of gain, he 
agreed to supply the quartermaster's department at the rate of 
$1 25 per bushel. Wood was supplied also at $2 50 per cord, 
and a miserable jacal was rented for a blacksmith shop at $1 50 
per day. For the most ordinary things of no value, but still re- 
quisite, they extorted the most outrageous prices. As far as we 
marched through the country, we bettered the condition of the 
people in every way, from the lowest to the highest class, not 
only by filling their pockets, but by introducing civilized arts and 
customs among them, and luxuries which they never knew of 
before. Whether it was from extreme poverty or ignorance, we 
cannot say ; but certain it is, that the most of them never knew 
the use of a looking-glass, or a brush and comb, until we came 
among them. 

There were several Mexican stores open, besides our sutler's, 
and also a billiard-room, which contributed greatly to the amuse- 



121 

ment of the officers. The town was very lively, and the men 
were better pleased with their quarters than any place we had yet 
visited. The mornings and evenings were delightful, and the 
men bathed daily in the refreshing waters of the Rio Alamo. 
On the 8th, the alcalde gave a complimentary fandango to the 
officers, or rather a jubilee to celebrate his good luck in having 
made a fortune out of his enemies. The ball was given in the 
large room of the alcalde's house, and some thirty young girls 
were assembled, dressed very neatly. Some had on white 
dresses, with short sleeves, and were decorated with jewelry. In 
fact, it was the most distingue affair that we had yet seen. Gen. 
Worth, as well as the officers generally, attended. The alcalde's 
niece was the belle of the evening, and she was really quite a 
pretty girl, with a fine form, regular features, and large lustrous 
black eyes. The mammas accompanied their ninas, as they 
called their daughters, and seemed delighted with the attention 
paid them by the officers. Cake and wine were handed around 
during the evening ; and to have seen the coquetry and flirtations 
of the Mexican senoritas and the gay cavaliers, would have pro- 
duced many a hearty laugh from our city belles. The frolic was 
kept up till late, and, long after the ladies were seen home, the 
song and laugh of revelry continued in the banquet hall. To 
many a brave and noble soul, who participated in the wild glee 
and merriment of that occasion, was it destined to be the last 
night of innocent mirth. 

In order to give to the reader all the incidents of the campaign, 
as far as it lies in our power, and the movements and occurrences 
of the main body of the army, for we were always in the extreme 
advance, we shall occasionally give the letters of Mr. Haile, or 
make extracts from them, relating to the army where we were 
not in person. It will be seen by the following graphic letter, 
that in anticipation of an action between our advance force, and 
that of the enemy, under Carrasco, that prudent and energetic 
officer, Gen. Worth, immediately on receiving the information 
from McCulloch, of the force of the enemy, not only sent a detach- 
ment of the artillery battalion to our relief, but also despatched a 
courier to Col. Garland, at Punta Aguda, with orders for him to 
march immediately to Serralvo, in case he should hear firing in 
that direction, for the purpose of concentrating his forces, should 
a general engagement ensue. 

"Punta Aguda, Mexico, Sept. 7, 1846. 

"We arrived here, with Col. Wilson's command, yesterday, at 
ten o'clock, a. m. We marched about fifteen miles, through a 
country more interesting than any we had before passed. Indeed, 
every day's approach to the mountains brings us into a finer 

11 



122 DESCRIPTION OF A FANDANGO. 

country ; the land becoming less arid, and vegetation more abund- 
ant and fresh. The country abounds with clear running streams 
that spring from the mountains. From Comargo to this place, 
the road passes over innumerable beds of lime-rock, and a mise- 
rable soil, covered with scattering shrubbery, and a hundred varie- 
ties of the cactus plant. Here the scene is suddenly changed 
from a barren waste to a garden. The camp is situated a few 
yards from a httle ravine, down which the Agua del Alamo rushes, 
over lime rocks, with great velocity. The Mexicans have here 
erected a neat dam of lime rock and cement, at which the creek 
is divided off into several canals, wbich irrigate the farms around. 
Below this dam, over which the water falls almost perpendicu- 
larly, in an unbroken sheet, is a basin of foaming water, affording 
one of the most delicious bathing-places in the world. I need not 
say that this basin is always occupied by the soldiers. About 
half a mile from camp is a large rancho, or Mexican village, where 
the farmers of this dehghtful region are huddled together for se- 
curity. The buildings are made of stone, with straw roofs. 

" I went last night, in company with several officers, to attend 
a fandango at this rancho. The dance was held in front of one 
of the largest houses, in the open air, the moon affording abund- 
ance of hght. Benches were set around, forming a circle. Tables 
were placed around the ring, upon which a number of cake mer- 
chants offered small loaves of brown sugar, cigarritos, and other 
httle dainties, for sale. Every thing was conducted with the ut- 
most decorum, and with much taste. The seiioritas, many of 
whom were, by moonhght, very pretty, were dressed, with a few 
exceptions, in calico, made up after the American style, or rather 
in bad imitation of it. They were ranged around upon the 
benches, where they sat very quietly, behaving very hke our 
country-girls in Louisiana, on similar occasions. In truth, the 
party resembled a country ball at home, the girls manifesting the 
same modest timidity, so captivating in our sweet Creole girls, and 
the young men, who were neatly clad in white Hnen pants, snow- 
white shirts, and red silk sashes, conducting themselves with per- 
fect pohteness and regularity. A little hump-backed Mexican — 
a dwarf withal — was seated in a chair, with a viohn as large as 
himself, his keen black eyes twinkling in the moonbeams, sawing 
out waltzes and break-downs with wonderful ease. Just as the 
waltzing commenced, an orderly rode up from Col. Garland — 
Col. G. commands this camp — with an order for Col. Watson, 
who was a spectator, to appear at his head-quarters forthwith. A 
moment after, we learned that an express had arrived from Gen. 
Worth, bringing orders for the troops here to be ready for an at- 
tack ; and in case firing was heard in the direction of Serralvo, 



THE ARMY AT SERRALVO. 123 

to set out immediately for that place. A subdued buzz pervaded 
the camp, after orders in conformity with the above had been pro- 
mulgated ; new instructions were given to the sentinels, cartridge- 
boxes were carefully examined, muskets inspected, and the men 
lay beside their arms. As no talking was allowed, and every 
man felt inclined to listen, the whole camp was soon wrapped in 
silence, excepting here and there where a tired soldier could be 
heard blowing off his fatigues and cares through his nasal organ. 
It was said that Canales was in the vicinity, with a considerable 
body of men. Everybody awoke this morning, however, with a 
Avhole skin. Gen. Worth seems to feel confident that the Mexi- 
cans are determined to fight. So Httle faith have I in the tale 
that there are Mexicans between here and Serralvo, that I shall 
start for that place this evening, in company with two other per- 
sons only. Should we come off missing, you may therefore know 
that there are Mexicans about. I go on to-night, because it is 
uncertain whether Gen. Taylor will reach this place for two or 
three days, and I am anxious to reach Serralvo before him, so as 
to be prepared to travel on towards Monterey, as soon as he arrives ; 
for I know that he will not stop at Serralvo longer than twenty- 
four hours. He is determined to take six thousand troops that 
he has selected for the purpose, and push ahead without resting. 
The army for Monterey is, ere now, on this side of the San Juan, 
and on their march." 

The morning of the 9th was dehghtfully cool and pleasant, and 
nothing occurred to break the peaceful quiet of the little town 
which lay at the foot of the Serralvo mountains, whose summits 
received the golden lustre of the rising sun, as it mounted its 
course in the heavens. The green herbage of the fields — the 
groups of forest trees scattered here and there, with silvery fairy 
streams, vieing one with another in their rapid course over a ledge 
of rock, each fretting and foaming at the obstructions of its way ; 
then sweetly murmuring over some pebbled bed, and again emp- 
tying itself into some deeper basin, where it settled into a stilly 
quiet, without a ripple to mar its mirrored surface — all presented 
a most lovely scene for the eye to dwell upon, and filled one with 
emotion, while drinking in the beauties of the landscape. 

In the afternoon. Gen. Taylor arrived with the 2d Dragoons and 
the First Division, under Gen. Twiggs, to which was attached 
Capt. Shiver's company of Texas volunteers, and the Washington 
and Baltimore battalion ; also, two twenty-four pound howitzers 
and one mortar. 

On the morning of the 10th, Gen. Butler came up with the First 
Brigade, under Gen. Hamer, composed of the 1st Ohio and 1st 
Kentucky regiments ; and at night, Gen. Gluitman arrived with 



124 GENERAL ORDERS. 

the Second Brigade, composed of the 1st Mississippi and 1st Ten- 
nessee regiments of volunteers. The whole force now assembled 
at Serralvo amounted to about 6000 troops, besides Gen. Hen- 
derson's Texas Rangers, composed of Hays's and Wood's regi- 
ments, which had not yet come up. 

On the morning of the 11th of September, the whole camp 
was one scene of activity. Never did the little town wear such 
an aspect of mihtary display. Drums were beating in all direc- 
tions, throughout the day, and all was hurry and bustle. The 
forges of the different batteries were busy, shoeing horses, &c., 
and every preparation was making for our march to Monterey. 
In the afternoon, the men assembled for evening parade ; after 
drill, the music of the different regiments beat off, while the offi- 
cers saluted. The adjutants then read the following orders from 
head-quarters : 

Head-quarters, Army of Occupation, 

Serralvo, Sept. 11, 1846. 
[Orders, No 115.] 

1. As the army may expect to meet resistance in the farther 
advance towards Monterey, it is necessary that the march should 
be conducted with all proper precaution to meet an attack and se- 
cure the baggage and supplies. 

From this point the following will be the order of march until 
otherwise directed : 

2. All the pioneers of the army, consolidated into one party, 
will march early to-morrow on the route to Marin, for the purpose 
of repairing the roads and rendering it practicable for artillery and 
wagons. The pioneers of each division will be under a subaltern, 
to be specially detailed for the duty, and the whole will be under 
the command of Capt. Craig, 3d Infantry, who will report to head- 
quarters for instructions. This pioneer party will be covered by a 
squadron of dragoons, and Capt. McCulloch's company of Ran- 
gers. Two officers of topographical engineers, to be detailed by 
Capt. Williams, will accompany the party, for the purpose of ex- 
amining the route. Two wagons will be provided by the quarter- 
master's department for the transportation of the tools, provisions, 
and knapsacks of the pioneer party. 

3. The First Division will march on the 13th instant, to be fol- 
lowed on successive days by the Second Division and field division 
of volunteers. The head-quarters will march with the First Di- 
vision. Capt. Gillespie, with half of his company, will report to 
Maj. Gen. Butler ; the other half, under the first-lieutenant, to 
Brig. Gen. Worth. These detachments will be employed for out- 
posts and videttes, and as expresses between the column and head- 
quarters. 

4. The subsistence supplies will be divided between the three 



PREPARATIONS FOR THE MARCH TO MONTEREY. 125 

coiTimns, the senior commissary of each division receipting for 
the stores, and being charged with their care and management. 
The senior commissaries of divisions will report to Capt. Wagga- 
man for this duty. 

5. Each division will be followed immediately by its baggage 
train, and supply train, with a strong rear-guard. The ordnance 
train under Capt. Ramsay will march with the Second Division, 
between its baggage and supply train, and will come under the 
protection of the guard of that division. The medical suppHes 
will, in hke manner, march with the First Division. 

6. The troops will take eight days' rations and forty rounds of 
ammunition. All surplus arms and accoutrements, resuking from 
casualties on the road, will be deposited with Lieut. Stewart, left 
in charge of the depot at this place, who will give certificates of 
deposit to the company commanders. 

7. The wagons appropriated for transportation of water will not 
be required, and will be turned over to the quartermaster's depart- 
ment for general purposes. 

8. Two companies of the Mississippi regiment will be desig- 
nated for the garrison of this place. All sick and disabled men, 
unfit for the march, will be left behind, under charge of a medical 
officer to be selected for this duty by the medical director. 

By order of Maj. Gen. Taylor, 

W. W. S. Bliss, Ass't Aclft General 

Although the object and destination of our march had been well 
understood by all, yet this was the first plain intimation, published 
by the general, in which there was no mistaking the nature and 
character of the service before us. As the orders were read, a 
murmur of approbation ran through the long lines of infantry, 
which presented a pageantry of arms seldom witnessed. After 
the parade was dismissed, a buzz of gaiety and hveliness prevailed. 
In the camp of the Rangers, the men were occupied parching 
coffee, arranging their wallets and pack-saddles, and cleaning their 
arms. That eight days' provisions were to be carried with us, 
was a sufficient guarantee that we were not to make a speedy re- 
turn. Orders were received that day from Washington, announc- 
ing the promotions and brevets for the battles of the 8th and 9th ; 
and among the young officers there was much joy and merry-mak- 
ing in honour of the occasion. 

After our usual bath in the beautiful river, we strolled down to 
the plaza, where many of the officers were walking for pleasure. 
It was a lovely night, and the Mexican maidens were looking out 
from the doors and windows upon the moonhght scene, while the 
music of the band of the " eighth" lent additional charms to the 
beauty of the scene. 

11* 



126 THE MARCH. 

On the morning of the 12th of September, according to orders, 
the advance took up the line of march for Marin, where it was 
expected we would meet with a large Mexican force. The ad- 
vance was composed as follows : McCulloch's Rangers, Capt. Pike 
Graham's squadron of dragoons, and a company of pioneers, num- 
bering about eighty men, followed by two wagons, the whole under 
the command of Capt. Craig, of the 3d Infantry. Capt. Williams, 
accompanied by Lieuts. Meade and Wood, of the engineers, also 
joined us. At 12, m., we arrived at Rancho Carrisito, where we 
nooned it. We then proceeded on to our old camp ground near 
the creek, thirteen miles from Serralvo, where we encamped for 
the night. This is a beautiful spot, which, in our haste, on our 
former visits we had no opportunity to describe. It is the first 
large stream you come to after leaving Carrisito. Being a rocky 
branch winding among the hills, the south end of the stream runs 
through a deep ravine, on the west side of which is a perpendi- 
cular rock of limestone about sixty feet high. From the base of 
this rock, a hundred streams gush out from the crevices, forming 
cool crystal springs. On the east side is a high ledge of rock, 
projecting so as to form a half cave, where there is a deep basin 
of water, making a delightful bathing-place, and in which many 
of our men luxuriated. 

At sundown, a strong picket-guard was posted in the advance, 
about one mile and a half from camp, and we were detailed as 
one of the guard. We concealed ourselves by the side of the 
road in the chaparral, where, on our horses, we kept a look-out all 
night, dismounting occasionally to rest them. Nothing of interest 
occurred, however, all having remained quiet throughout the night. 
At dayhght on the 13th, our company came up to us, when we 
pushed on with them, without breakfast, and tired and sleep}?- as 
we were. It was a fine clear cool morning, and as we had to stop 
occasionally for the pioneers to prepare and cut out the road for 
the artillery, we did not reach Papagayo until about 1, p. m., when 
we halted for them to come up. In the mean time, Capt. McCul- 
loch proceeded on with a detachment of fifteen men to reconnoitre. 
After proceeding about four miles along a ridge, over which the 
road lay, the enemy was discovered at the base of an opposite 
hill. On perceiving our party, they retreated to the top of the 
hill to the number of about eighty, where they stood awaiting our 
movements, at the same time prancing about on their horses, and 
waving their swords in defiance. The challenge was answered 
in return, but they, fearing a concealed force, did not dare to ap- 
proach; while on our part, our numbers were too few to risk a 
skirmish, as the enemy in sight \vas supposed to be the picket- 
guard of a large force. Under these circumstances, the detach- 



SCOUT TO RAMOS. 127 

ment returned, and reported to Capt. Craig. An express was 
immediately despatched to Gen. Taylor, for the First Division to 
hasten up by a forced march, as an attack was apprehended. The 
Rangers took possession of the houses at the rancho, the women 
having left, and there being but two or three Mexicans about the 
place. We killed all the chickens about, but not without paying 
twenty-five cents a piece for them, and at sundown the men pre- 
pared supper. The infantry, composed of the pioneers, were then 
posted on the other side of the road on a high eminence, where 
stood a little jacal, for defence, while the dragoons encamped be- 
low them. Great excitement prevailed in camp, and it was 
thought that an engagement with the enemy would certainly take 
place on the morrow. Accordingly, the arrival of the First Divi- 
sion was looked for with much anxiety. It was ascertained that 
one of the Mexicans at the rancho was a spy, and after selHng out 
all the chickens, he had slipped off to give information to the 
enemy. An advance and rear-guard were now posted, and the 
men lay by their arms all night to prevent a surprise. 

The day of the 14th dawned, without an incident having occur- 
red, the Mexicans not having had the temerity to attack us. After 
breakfast, we were ordered into the saddle on a scout towards 
Ramos, a little town about eight miles distant, west course. One 
mile from camp, we dismounted, and left the pack-mules in 
charge of some five or six men, and then proceeded on. The 
men were in high spirits, and felt sure that this time they would 
have a brush with the enemy. After advancing three miles far- 
ther, in rising a little hilJ,we discovered the tracks of the enemy's 
cavalry, where they had shown themselves the day before. Here 
we divided our force, and fifteen men were detailed to go in the ad- 
vance Avith Capt. McCulloch, while the main body was left in 
charge of Lieut. Kelly, who received orders to remain behind for 
a certain time, when they were to come up and halt at a turn in 
the road, and there wait for a signal. The advance continued on, 
and after proceeding about a mile, came in sight of the enemy, 
within long rifle-shot. Several fires were exchanged on both sides, 
when McCulloch waving his sword, as if motioning to an army 
in the rear, galloped after them, and drove the enemy from their 
position to another hill. In the mean time, the main body had 
come up, and were now ordered to deploy around a hill to the 
right, so as to keep out of sight of the enemy, and come in at 
another point in the road, and again wait for a signal. In order to 
do this, they had to cross a deep ravine, the sides of which were 
lined with thick chaparral and entangled vines, making the task 
by no means an easy one, but notwithstanding it was accomplished. 
The road now ran along the base of a ridge of hills on our right, 



128 A SKIRMISH. 

with occasional ones on our left, forming passes. Our advance 
had proceeded this far, and drove the enemy's scouts back to their 
main force. While reconnoitering here, Capt. McCulloch, who 
was on a high hill to the right, discovered some twenty of the 
enemy lying in ambush in the bottom below ; at the same time, the 
gallant young Thomas, of Baltimore, who was in pursuit of a 
Mexican officer, having shot at him once, was rushing on at a 
break-neck pace, into the very arms of the ambuscade. A mo- 
ment more, and he Avas lost. Capt. McCulloch, with that pre- 
sence of mind which never forsakes him, seeing his danger, raised 
his sword as if beckoning to a large force to come up, at the same 
time dashing towards them himself. The Mexicans seeing the 
movement, thought they would not have time to make Thomas a 
prisoner, before being surrounded themselves, so giving him their 
fire, they fled ; strange to say, however, it did not take effect. And 
by this ruse poor young Thomas was saved, only however to 
participate in a more glorious action, and to meet in the most gal- 
lant manner a soldier's death. A horseman was then despatched 
to order up the main body, who, having heard the firing, were 
waiting with the most restless anxiety and excitement for orders 
from the advance. No sooner did the courier come in sight, than 
he beckoned them to follow him. On they dashed in fine style, 
with a shout that echoed over the hills, and raising a dust which 
might have been taken for the advent of a regiment of dragoons, 
while the Mexicans hastily retreated before us. 

Capt. McCulloch now pushed on with the advance, until wnthin 
a quarter of a mile of Ramos, where he again came up with the 
enemy, at about some hundred yards distant. Here they opened 
a heavy fire upon us with their escopetas, or carbines, which was 
returned by our boys in the most spirited manner, killing one and 
wounding two of the enemy; while on our part not a man was 
touched, a horse only being slightly wounded in the neck. The 
Mexicans staggered at our fire, and retreated to the town in the 
greatest confusion. A shout of triumph from the Rangers rose 
wildly on the air, and, filled with excitement, and an impetuosity 
that was impossible to restrain, they rushed on, pursuing the 
enemy into the very town of Ramos, charging through and driving 
them out of it to a high hill. Nor did the Mexicans stop until 
they reached the top of it, when they stood for a moment in evi- 
dent terror and dismay, expecting that they were pursued by a 
thousand cavalry at least. To show how hot was the chase, they 
had barely time to leave their wounded in the town ; and as it 
was, we made a prisoner, and captured a scopet which one of the 
enemy dropped in his flight. We could distinctly see about two 
hundred men, a detachment of Torrejon's cavalry, commanded 



ARRIVAL OF THE FIRST DIVISION. 129 

by Carrasco ; and fearing the rash act might yet cost us dearly, 
Capt. McCuUoch slowly retired from the town with his men, to 
the mountain pass, in order to prevent our being cut off, as the 
enemy was making some demonstration of winding around the 
hills in that direction. We however met with no opposition, and 
proceeded back towards camp ; about four miles from which we 
discovered a large force on the top of a hill, which proved to be 
Capt. Graham's dragoons. Thus with our httle force of only 
forty men, and Avith only fifteen in the advance, we chased and 
routed, for six miles, two hundred of the enemy ! 

This was our first regular skirmish, and it was considered the 
opening of the fall campaign. The command here came to a halt, 
while a detachment of men were sent back after our pack-mules. 
We proceeded on with the prisoner in our charge, and on our 
arrival, found that Gen. Taylor had come up with the artillery, 
cavalry, and infantry of the First Division, having arrived soon 
after our departure by a forced march. We delivered the prisoner 
over to the General, and on interrogating the Mexican, it was 
ascertained from him that at Marin, nine miles from Ramos, there 
were about 1500 cavalry under Gen. Torrejon. The news of 
our scout created quite an excitement in camp, and all were in a 
feverish state of anxiety to learn the particulars. To one uncon- 
nected with the army, or who never marched against an enemy, 
no idea can be formed of the almost painful excitement that is cre- 
ated with the centre and rear ranks to learn what is going on in 
the advance. Thus they are continually kept in suspense and 
anxiety to learn the cause whenever a halt is called, a movement 
made, or any event occurring which they do not understand ; and 
on this account all reports and rumors from the advance are re- 
ceived with the greatest interest and eagerness. 

It was now about two o'clock, p. m. The officers of the First 
Division were sitting about in squads, taking a lunch. The 
General was sitting on a camp-stool under the shade of a tree, 
with his staff and other officers around him, who were laughing 
and joking over the adventures of our scout. All seemed so 
pleasant, and in such high spirits, that the scene bore more the 
resemblance of a "pic-nic" party than that of a hostile invading 
army. After partaking of a lunch with the officers, the detach- 
ment returned with the pack-mules to where we met the dragoons, 
and encamped for the night about one hundred yards from the 
road, near a beautiful stream of water, where the men prepared 
supper. A strong guard was posted around the camp, and a 
picket sent out a mile in the advance. The men were much 
fatigued with the morning's amusement, and although quite a 
heavy rain had fallen in the early part of the night, yet they slept 



130 MARCH OF THE SECOND DIVISION. 

as soundly on the ground as if they had been enjoying the com- 
forts of their own happy homes. 

The army had moved on, in accordance with the pubHshed 
orders, two companies of the Mississippi regiment having been 
left behind to garrison the town of Serralvo. Having brought the 
First Division up with the advance, we must go back after the 
Second, and we here give to the reader Mr. Haile's account of its 
movements. 

" Second Division of the select six thousand — inarch from Ser- 
ralvo to Monterey. 

" Sept. 1 4. — The Second Division, under Gen. Worth, which was 
ordered to march to-day — the First Division, under Gen. Twiggs, 
having marched yesterday — had just placed their personal cloth- 
ing and accoutrements in convenient conditions for packing 
yesterday evening, when they were called out for inspection, 
orderlies, servants, and all, leaving their tents unattended. Just 
as Gen. Worth appeared on the field, a heavy rain, accom- 
panied with wind, commenced, and, prostrating many of the tents, 
soaked every thing in camp. At two o'clock this morning the 
reveille beat, and the poor fellows, with all their duds still wet, 
commenced their preparations for the march. The tents were at 
once struck and packed — wagons were brought up to receive the 
tent poles, camp kettles, &c., private mules and pack-horses were 
harnessed — camp Avomen, with children at the breast, and of all 
sizes, packed themselves and little ones upon Mexican mules and 
ponies, and, by daylight, the column w^as in motion. The rear- 
guard did not get off until eleven o'clock. The day has been 
exceedingly warm. We have marched twelve miles, over a 
country different in every respect from any I have ever before 
seen. The shrubbery and plants are entirely new to me, with the 
exception of the eternal cactus, which grows all over Mexico, in a 
hundred varieties. The wild ohve, and a white, round-leafed 
shrub with pink-coloured blossoms, cover the mountains and table- 
lands. We have crossed five or six clear, cool streams to-day, 
and are now encamped upon the brow of a ravine, down which 
runs a spring brook." 

" 15. — We are now about fourteen miles from Marin. We 
passed a few moments since a rancho which had just been de- 
serted in great haste — the cows, goats and chickens having been 
left behind. We left camp this morning at four o'clock. Our 
way has led along the foot of a mountain which rises on our right 
to a height of 2500 to 3000 feet. We likewise have a mountain 
on our left, of nearly the same height. These two mountains con- 
verge before us, and descend at the same time, to about the level of 



MARCH OF THE SECOND DIVISION. 131 

the table-lands upon which we now are. But far in the distance 
before us rises the Sierra Madres, higher and more majestic than 
any we have before seen. Our march has been over a very bad 
road to-day. Up hill and down — all rocks and pebbles, ravines 
and mines. The whole country over which we have to-day tra- 
velled is covered with aged ' Spanish bayonet' trees — a species 
of palm, each leaf of which is pointed with a sharp thorn. Some 
of these trees are two and a half to three feet in diameter, and 
must be from one hundred and fifty to two hundred years old. As 
we reached this camping place, an express came in from Gen. 
Taylor, directing this division to join him at Marin by a forced 
march. We are therefore bivouacked, ready to march at a 
moment's warning. It seems that the Mexicans are assembled in 
force, between here and Monterey, and it is rumored that Santa 
Anna himself is in the field. There is no doubt about there being 
a strong force at Monterey, and Gen. Taylor therefore directs that 
the First and Second Divisions shall join to-morrow, and march be- 
fore the town. Capt. Graham, of the dragoons, had a skirmish 
last night, near Marin, with some Mexican videttes, and killed one 
or two, and took two or three more prisoners. As I have said 
before, it is the opinion of most of the officers that a harder fight 
is in store than has before taken place. Gen. Worth keeps his 
division always in readiness, so that he could hardly be surprised, 
by night or day. Last night a sort of stampede was got up in 
camp, and we shall have another to-night, of course. I cannot 
help thinking that if an alarm were to come off to-night, a most 
singular scene would follow. We are bivouacked in a thicket 
of trees, or large shrubs, all of which have thorns. To walk 
through them without stooping and dodging about to avoid the 
thorns is impossible. Horses and mules are tied by long lassos, 
in every direction. The whole thicket, as well as the road for 
half a mile, is filled with men stretched out on blankets, chatting 
about the probabilities of a fight — some predicting that no such 
happiness is in reserve for them, whilst others of more experience 
think differently. Gen. Taylor enters Marin to-night, and will 
there consolidate his httle army. We march to-morrow morning 
at half-past three." 

It will be seen by the above letter, that resistance was expected 
to be met with at Marin, and in consequence of which the Second 
Division was ordered to come up by a forced march. The reader 
will perceive also that it was McCuUoch's men, who had the 
skirmish, instead of Graham's dragoons. But this only shows 
how rumors and reports change by the repetition of a thousand 
tongues. 



132 THE WOUNDED MEXICAN. 



CHAPTER XIV. 

Description of Ramos — The wounded Mexican — The Charity and Benevolence 
of the Texas Rangers — Arrival at Marin — Evacuation of the Town by the 
Mexican Troops — Description of the Country, and Marin — A Mexican Din- 
ner — The Great Western — Scenes and Incidents — An Express from the 
Spanish Consul — Camp at Marin — Capture of a Spy — Ampudia's Letter and 
Circular — Scout to Pescaria Chica — Incident — Zacatecas — Agua Frio — 
Arrival at San Francisco — The whole Army Encamped — Arrival of Gen. 
Henderson with the Texas Rangers — Scenes and Preparations — March of the 
Army towards Monterey — Arrival before the Fortifications of the City — 
View of the Valley of Monterey — Demonstration by the Mexican Cavalry — 
The opening of the Enemy's Batteries — The Reconnoissance^Camp at 
Walnut Springs — The Night Expedition — Prisoners— Scene at the Guard 
Fires. 

On the 15th day of September, we resumed our march at sunrise, 
the whole of the First Division having come up to our camp. In 
consequence of having to wait occasionally for the pioneers to come 
up, who were working the road, we travelled very slowly. At 8, 
A. M., we arrived at Ramos, where we purchased some corn for 
our horses from an old man. The town was nearly desolate — all 
but a few of the inhabitants having deserted it. The place con- 
tains about some forty houses, principally built of stone, with 
nothing particularly attractive about it. In one of the houses we 
found a wounded Mexican, who had been shot in the skirmish of 
yesterday. Several of our men went in to see him, and feeling very 
sorry for the poor fellow, gave him money as they took his hand 
to bid him good-bye. An old woman and a young girl attended 
his bedside, and on seeing the feeling exhibited by the Rangers 
towards one of their enemies, took the hands of their benefactors 
and bathed them with the tears of gratitude. It was indeed a 
most touching scene. And we never shall forget the long, wistful 
gaze the girl gave us, as we parted from her at the door, while 
her soul seemed to offer up a prayer for our kindness. 

We continued on towards Marin, keeping some five miles in the 
advance, passing through a most beautiful rolling country, with 
the mountains rising far in the distance. The road now became 
more level and even than any we had passed over, and conse- 
quently the pioneers were enabled to travel faster. When within 
about a mile of Marin, the scenery that presented itself was mag- 
nificent in the extreme. On our right rose the tall peaks of the 
Sierra Alvo, about some three thousand feet high, running nearly 
east and west, while before us were the majestic and towering 
peaks of the Sierra Madre, ranging north and south, of every 
shape, fornting battlements, leaning towers, obelisks, and steeples 



APPROACH TO MARIN. 133[ 

which seemed almost to pierce the heavens. Again, on our left, 
another chain of mountains reared their lofty summits towards the 
blue sky, the whole composing, as it were, a semicircle, and pre- 
senting a scene of grandeur and surpassing beauty which filled 
one with involuntary awe and admiration, while the soul became 
entrapped and lost, as it were, in contemplating the masterly 
works of nature. 

About 10, A. M., we arrived in sight of Marin, which, in the dis- 
tance, resembled a country seat, with beautiful gardens and parks. 
" On reaching the hill," says Mr. Kendall, " overlooking the town, 
eight hundred or a thousand yards distant, we came in plain sight 
of a large body of the enemy's cavalry, ranged in their principal 
street, and evidently much flurried by our appearance. They 
were armed with new escopetas and lances, and among the uni- 
forms were many of bright scarlet. 

" With a force entirely too small to approach nearer — having 
only twenty-five men with him — McCuUoch ordered a halt. The 
plaza was concealed from sight by the church and the adjoining 
buildings, making it impossible to tell whether there were any 
infantry or artillery in the town or not. The place oflfered every 
opportunity for concealing an enemy of thousands ; and as our 
commander was not so particularly certain that the Mexicans 
might not send an eighteen-pound shot, or some missile of the 
kind, up our way on a flying visit, we were ordered to scatter a 
Httle along the brow of the hill. Scouts, in the mean time, were 
sent out to prevent a party from getting in our rear, as the advance 
of Gen. Taylor was still several miles off*. 

" For an hour we sat watching the hurried movements of the 
cavalry in the town, unable to make out their intentions. Horse- 
men were plainly seen dashing and cavorting about, while men on 
foot were jumping to get out of their way. Several greasers — 
Mexicans of the lower order, dressed in greasy buckskin — were 
taken in the chaparral close by us, or voluntarily came up, who 
stated that the party below us was commanded by Gen. Torrejon, 
who had driven them out of the place and had threatened to 
destroy their houses by fire before los Americanos should gain 
possession. They pointed out their jacales and casas to us, 
and implored our assistance in saving them ! Singular war this, 
and more singular the people ! 

" In about an hour the cavalry began to move off in order, 
taking the route towards Monterey, now indistinctly seen lying 
at the foot of a large mountain ten or eleven leagues off. Their 
rear had not yet left the place before McCuUoch, accompanied 
only by Col. Peyton, was dogging after them, intent on watching 
their movements. In half an hour's time our captain appeared 

12 



134 DESCRIPTION OF MARIN. 

near the main street and beckoned us down, and in five minutes 
more we were all in the plaza. Nearly every house was closed, 
and the few men we met — for the women had all been taken off — 
greeted us as amigos, or friends, with their hats in their hands. 
One old fellow, living in a large house next door to the church, 
said he had been beaten — severely beaten — after we appeared in 
the night, by some of Torrejon's officers, to induce him to leave ; 
but, regardless of blows, he had determined to stick by his pre- 
mises and property. All the inhabitants had been shamefully 
abused, their property taken from them, and they were then 
driven into the chaparral ; and we were told that in an hour's time 
more, had our company not appeared in sight, they would have 
set fire to the place. 

" Such is the pohcy which has been adopted, and such the 
course pursued by Torrejon at every rancho and town since the 
army left Serralvo. To drive off the inhabitants and destroy all 
the supplies on the road is the game they are now playing, cer- 
tainly determining to harass Gen. Taylor if they do not intend to 
fight him. The Mexicans all along on the road spoke confidently 
that Gen. Taylor would meet with stout resistance at this place ; 
but the force we met only amounted to some eight hundred or a 
thousand cavalry, and they started off without firing a gun." 

The town is most sublimely situated on a beautiful piece of 
table-land, surrounded by the mountains ; it is a lovely little place, 
and contains several very handsome buildings ; also, a church, 
which is well built of white free-stone, the handsomest one we had 
yet seen. Its beautiful white steeple contrasted finely with its 
cornices and turrets, which were tipped with red, and we almost 
imagined that we were in some httle New England village. The 
houses were neatly built, and no doubt, from the tapestry of the 
walls, they had been furnished accordingly. On the south side 
of the town there is a clever stream of water, but not very good, 
being discoloured by hmestone, which gives it an unpleasant taste. 
They, however, have most excellent well water here. The wells 
are very deep, and, instead of having a crank to draw the water, 
the Mexicans use a pulley, and walk off with the end of the rope, 
instead of hauling the bucket up by the hand. The water was clear, 
and as cool as ice, which was perfect nectar to the men after our 
hot ride. The few stores that were in the place were all deserted, 
presenting only empty shelves. 

It was now about noon, and Gen. Taylor having come up with 
the First Division, the town was soon filled with our troops. All 
felt hungry, but with very little prospect of satisfying our appe- 
tites, as it was not yet known from head-quarters what was to 
be our next movement. On entering a house on the corner of the 



A MEXICAN DINNER. 135 

plaza, we found an old lady who seemed perfectly delighted ut the 
arrival of our troops, and, to our surprise, we saw a table seKout, 
which, from its looks, had been spread with a fine dinner ; and s<^) 
it turned out ; for the old lady told us that she had been ordered\ 
to prepare dinner for some of the Mexican officers, and that, on 
our appearance, they took what they could from the table and left, 
being in too great a hurry to stay and finish their meal. She ap- 
peared well pleased at their discomfiture, and poured forth a 
volume of vituperation against them generally, and Gen. Torrejon 
especially, who, she said, had ordered fifteen beeves to be killed 
the night previous, and had up as many more for slaughter. 
"They carried off every thing they could," said she, "and never 
paid me a cent." She then brought in the balance of the dinner, 
consisting of roast beef, tortillas, pepper sauce, and onions, and 
frijolas, or red beans. We sat down to the table with several 
officers, and had a most glorious repast, for which we amply paid 
the old lady. 

In the afternoon Gen. Taylor moved with the First Division, 
and encamped about two miles westward from town, near a litt!e 
stream, the head-waters of the San Juan. The dragoons occupied 
the plaza, while the Rangers encamped near them in a large lot 
or yard. That night the men were " in for a good sleep,'' as 
they expressed it, and spreading their blankets on the clean 
ground, lay smoking their pipes and talking over the rumors 
and news of the day, until the camp gradually became wrapped 
in slumber. 

On the morning of the 16th, we moved to the banks of the San 
Juan, near the camp of the First Division. Gen. Worth, with the 
Second Division, came up this morning and joined us. To give 
the reader an idea of some of the scenes of a marching army, we 
give the following graphic sketch by our friend Haile. Mrs. 
Bourdett, the " Heroine of Fort Brown," here spoken of, but bet- 
ter known in the army as the " Great Western," catered for the 
officers of the 5th Infantry. 

"The heroine of Fort Brown, or 'Great Western,' is in the 
crowd. She drives two Mexican ponies in a light wagon, and 
carries the apparatus and necessaries for her mess, which now 
numbers about a dozen young officers. There are a number of 
women along, with young children. One soldier is leading a 
pony, with two little children, two and three years old, strapped 
fast to the saddle, one on each side, like panniers. The poor httle 
things are sadly sunburnt, and look thin and half starved, but they 
are as gay as larks, and even their little faces are turned in child- 
ish astonishment towards the lofty mountains that rise like great 
clouds before us." 



136 

A great many of the Mexicans had come into town from the 
chaparroi, where they had hid themselves, and were now sup- 
plying}^ the camp with tortillas, sweet cakes, and melons, besides 
fodder, corn, and grass, for our horses. The picket-guard of the 
Rangers, stationed about a mile in the advance, captured a pack- 
mule this morning, laden with baggage, which proved the source 
of much merriment to our men. We give Mr. Kendall's account 
of the affair. 

" We had a funny scene in our company, this afternoon. Two 
or three of the men, while out on picket, found a mule load of bag- 
gage belonging to a Mexican officer. The animal had probably 
stampeded during the retreat of the day before, and Torrejon's 
men were in too great a hurry to hunt up runaway mules. The 
letters found would show that the owner was Don Ignacio some- 
thing or other, captain of the third company of Guanajuato cav- 
alry, and to set forth that Don Ignacio was a man of some conse- 
quence, he had a scarlet coat of the finest broadcloth, covered with 
pure silver buttons, ornamented with rich silver embroidery, and 
upon the breast of which was an order. His cap was of blue velvet, 
richly ornamented with silver band and tassels, while his cavalry 
pantaloons, of blue broadcloth foxed with morocco, had a wide 
stripe of red down their outer seams. Among the baggage was 
also a mattrass, several pillows, the cases of which were elabo- 
rately worked, and other fine bed-furniture ; in addition to all this, 
as if this were not enough, there were some half a dozen red, 
green, and figured petticoats, a dozen pair of beautiful little pink, 
blue, and white satin sHppers, to say nothing of a dozen neatly 
wrought Hnen camisas — all the wardrobe of some pretty Pohlana 
girl, who had doubtless followed Don Ignacio to the wars. 

" After all this ' large and elegant assortment ' had been opened, 
our orderly sergeant — the son of a member of Congress from Ten- 
nessee — rigged himself out in the showy uniform of the Mexican 
officer, and strutted forth to detail a picket-guard, decidedly the 
best dressed man in the invading army, from Gen. Taylor down. 
In the mean time, there were others who girt the Poblano's petti- 
coats about them, and then executed divers cracoviennes and ca- 
chucas, to the great amusement of the bystanders, and to the great 
danger of stampeding all our horses. Altogether, the scene was 
extremely diverting, and I put it down as a little episode in the 
life we have led of late. 

" The letters found were principally from the family of tho 
officer, but there was one from Gen. Cortazar, dated at Celaya, 
about the latter part of August, in which that general warmly 
hopes that Don Ignacio may be successful in assisting to drive the 
perfidious invaders of Texas from the country. So far, to say the 



CAPTURE OF A SPY. 137 

least of it, Don Ignacio has not realized Gen. Cortazar's hopes to 
any considerable extent, although there is no telhng what he may 
do yet. AJl joking aside, the Guanajuato officers are among the 
most intelligent and gentlemanly in the Mexican army. A de- 
tachment of them had charge of the Texian Santa Fe prisoners, 
in the city of Mexico, four or five years since, and from them they 
always received the best treatment, to my certain knowledge. It 
has been said by the Mexicans here, that the officer who lost his 
baggage was the last to leave Marin, and that he did all in his power 
to protect the inhabitants from abuse. I have spoken of the Po- 
blanas above ; if you wish to read a graphic account of them, get 
hold of Madame Calderon's work on Mexico." 

The next day, Gen. Butler's division arrived, and the whole army 
was noAv concentrated at this place. We went up to town in the 
morning, but found all looking lonely and desolate. The plain on 
which our army was encamped is about two hundred feet beJow the 
town, and but for the smoke of the camp-fires, no one would have 
supposed that there was any armed force in the vicinity, so com- 
pletely were the tents hidden from the view by the dense chapar- 
ral which lined each side of the road. Many were occupied 
to-day, writing their last letter home. Some were seen sitting 
in the shade, under the trees, with their nether legs for a table, 
inditing their epistles, and looking quite rural. Several prisoners 
were taken, among whom was one who said he had been em- 
ployed upon the ditches and fortifications of Monterey, and that 
he had made his escape two days ago. He described the different 
works and fortifications with great accuracy, and said that Ampu- 
dia had sent ofTall the women, and that his force consisted of 8000 
regulars and 3000 rancheros, with whom he determined to hold 
the city. In the afternoon, an express arrived from the Spanish 
consul at Monterey, giving to Gen. Taylor the points of the city, 
and requesting the observance of the flag of " her most Catholic 
majesty," and protection to all foreigners. A fellow who was sell- 
ing cakes about camp, in disguise, as a spy, was suspected of 
having distributed treasonable documents about camp. He proved 
to be an old acquaintance, no less than the said Heronimo, the spy 
we captured on the scout to Papagayo. He professed utter igno- 
rance, however, on the subject, and denied having been in our 
camp before. The documents consisted of a letter, in English^ 
from Ampudia, promising a reward to our soldiers to desert, and 
a circular, intended for the alcaldes and others, to take care of tho 
deserters. It will be perceived that the letter is a fair sample of 
Ampudia's English literature, — while at the same time the circu- 
lar is evidence of the wily sagacity of the Mexican commander. 

12* 



1 



138 ampudia's letter axd circular. 

Ar-mt of the NoKTtt, 
GcKeral in Chief. Head-Quarters, Monterey 
September 15th, 1S46. 

It is well-known that the war carried on to the repubhc of 
Mexico by the gfovernment of the United States of America is un- 
just, illegal, and anti-christian, for which reason no one ought to 
contribute to it. 

The Federal Gkiremment having been happily re-established, 
a large number of the battalions of the National Guard, in the 
States of Coahuila, St. Louis Potosi, Guanajuato, Zacatecas, Q,ue- 
retaro, and others, are ready to be on the field, and fight for our 
independence. Acting according with the dictates of honour, and 
in comphance with what my country- requires from me, in the 
name of my government, I offer to edl individuals that will lay- 
down their arms, and separate themselves from the American 
army, seeking protection, they will be well received and treated 
in all the plantations, farms or towns, where they will first arrive, 
and assisted for their march to the interior of the repubhc, by all 
the authorities on the road, as has been done with all those that 
have passed over to us. 

To all those that wish to serve in the Mexican army, their 
offices will be conserved and guarantied. 

Pedro pe Ampudia. 

[Translation of the "Circular "] 
"Head-Quakteks of the Akmt of the Nokth. 

"September 15. 1S46. 

"The object of the circular which is annexed, in English, is to 
make known to individuals among the troops of the United States — 
who, I am informed, desire to abandon that flag — the kind dispo- 
sitions with which they will be welcomed and protected under the 
flasr of Mexico, whose only device is to resist the unjust aggres- 
sion of the neighbouring republic, and to open wide the arms of the 
repubhc to those who seek the shelter of her flag with friendly 
purpose. Therefore, I now direct you that such soldiers as may 
present themselves from the enemy's ranks, with friendly pur- 
poses, unequivocally evinced, be assisted and conducted to the 
interior of the republic by the most convenient points and roads. 
But those who present themselves in a hostile attitude, or who, 
under friendly appearances, conceal sinister designs against the 
sacred rights of the repubhc — against these you are directed to 
make war in every mode. And in case the conduct of those who 
present themselves should be doubtful, and it be difficult to deter- 
mine whether their purposes be friendly or hostile, you will send 
them, under a secure guard, to head-quarters ; and if this be not 
possible, from circumstances which may occur during the war. 



SCOUT TO PESCARIA CHICA. 139 

you will have them marched to some point in the interior, beyond 
the reach of the enemy's advanced parties. I make this commu- 
nication to you for your punctual and exact compliance therewith, 
holding you reponsible for the slightest omission in regard to any 
point contained in this order, the high importance of which is well 
known. God and Liberty." 

At sundown, the men got supper. Orders were issued for the 
march of the army on the morrow. At night we again had the 
honour of being detailed on picket-guard. The detachment crossed 
the river and proceeded about a mile and a half on the road, where 
we halted and concealed ourselves in the chaparral. We stopped 
several Mexicans during the night ; among the rest, the courier of 
the Spanish consul, who said he had got lost. Nothing occurred of 
interest, and at gray-dawn, on the morning of the 18th, we returned 
to camp, where we found most of our men in the saddle. We had 
barely time to eat our breakfast, before we were ordered to march. 

Gen. Taylor had ascertained that Gen. Torrejon's cavalr}' were 
encamped in the vicinity of Pescaria Chica, a small towm to the 
southward, and on the left of the main route to Monterey, and Col. 
May, with his squadron of dragoons, was ordered to proceed with 
Capt. Gillespie's and our company of Rangers to cut them off, as 
it was thought their object was to attack our baggage-train and 
pack-mules in the rear. Consequently, we took down the right 
bank of the stream, while the rest of the army moved on the direct 
road, the Second Division being in the advance. After proceeding 
a quarter of a mile down the stream, we met an old man, mounted 
on a mustang pony, whom we pressed into service as a guide, and 
forced him to show us the road which the Mexicans had taken, only 
the night before. He at first led us astray, and protested that he did 
not know the route the enemy had pursued ; and it was only on 
threatening him with death, that he put us on the right trail. The 
little path we followed, led us through a beautiful level valley, 
lined on each side with hills and mountains. We soon found the 
tracks, or "'signs''^ of the enemy, and discovered the look-outs, or 
spies of the Mexicans on the distant hills. We dashed on at a 
merry gait, until 8, a. m., when we arrived at Pescaria Chica, a 
pretty httle village, about nine miles from Marin camp. 

At our unexpected appearance, the women, terrified and fright- 
ened out of their senses, ran into the houses, and clasping their 
children close to them, thought they were all to be murdered. 
The men also hid themselves, or stood doggedly by the doors of 
their houses. The command halted at the entrance of the towTi, 
while the officers proceeded, with a few dragoons, to call on the 
alcalde for information. Some of the houses were built half of 
logs, and the other half of white hme-stone, dividing at the door- 



140 CAMP AT SAN FRANCISCO. 

way, which looked very singular. On approaching a very neat 
house, where we saw a man standing, we asked him if he had 
any wine. The fellow looked as black as night, and shaking his 
finger, repHed in a surly tone that he had none ; when quite a 
pretty girl, who was standing in the house, near the door, with her 
cheeks still wet with tears, spoke up and said they had wine, and 
at her solicitation, the man was made to bring us a bottle, for which 
he demanded half a dollar. Waving the man aside with a signi- 
ficant motion, we beckoned to the girl, to whom, as she timidly ap- 
proached, we gave a dollar, the only piece of money we had ; she 
looked up, and smiling through her tears, thanked us, and offered 
to bring us more. 

Here we dismissed our old guide, having ascertained that the 
enemy had pushed on towards the mountains, and taking another, 
a middle-aged man, who was a-foot, and had but one shoe on, we 
struck up the Agua Frio river, towards the Monterey road. The 
guide seemed very willing to show us the route, and walked on 
with the greatest alacrity, notwithstanding he was so illy shod. 
We could not help but feel sorry for the poor creature, who seemed 
to think nothing of keeping up with us, though we travelled in a 
very fast walk. We pushed on three miles farther, and having 
passed through a rancho, called Zacatecas, soon after crossed the 
Agua Frio, when we discovered a Mexican, galloping off at a 
rapid rate. A command to halt, backed by the aim of a dozen rifles, 
soon brought the fugitive to, whom we compelled to show the com- 
mand into the main road, discharging, in the mean time, our second 
guide. We proceeded on two miles farther, and arrived at rancho 
Agua Frio, where we dismounted, and rested our horses for half 
an hour. Here we learned from a woman who sold us cake and 
wine, that Torrejon, with five hundred men, had passed through 
this place last night. The instructions, however, did not permit 
us to follow him. Mounting our horses, we pushed on for San 
Francisco, six miles distant, where we arrived at 1, p. m., making 
twenty miles that we had travelled, though only fourteen from 
Marin, on the direct road. The army had already arrived at this 
place, and were making preparations to encamp for the night. 

Our company encamped near a fine corn-field, and we had plenty 
of green fodder for our horses. A thousand rumors were afloat 
in camp, respecting the enemy at Monterey. The general opinion 
that now prevailed, was that a bloody battle would be fought. 
Sometime after our arrival, it was discovered that the Mexicans 
had shut off the water-courses, by damming them up, above us ; 
in catching two fellows in the act, they pretended they were work- 
ing the road. We soon opened them again, however, and a plen- 
tiful supply of the pure hquid was had for all purposes. In the 



ORDER OF MARCH. 141 

afternoon, Gen. Henderson arrived, with the two regiments of 
Texas Rangers, under Cols. Hays and Wood. 

A general stir and activity now prevailed in camp ; all seized 
the present opportunity to do that which had heen left undone. 
Muskets, rifles, and pistols were cleaned, reloaded, and primed. 
Officers of the different batteries were drilling the artillery men, 
and every arrangement was being made throughout the camp, 
while the clear ringing of the anvils of the forges of the different 
batteries, as the armourer's hammer descended with sturdy stroke, 
gave token of the preparation for the coming contest. All were 
in fine spirits, young hearts beat high with the assurance of vic- 
tory, and longed for the hour to come which should crown them 
with distinction, or sacrifice them to their country's sacred cause. 
The watch-fires of the camps lit up the surrounding scene, and 
presented to the view the long lines of the encampment of the 
army. It was a fine star-hght night, and a cool and pleasant 
breeze was stirring, while ever and anon, from the door of a tent, 
or a group sitting around a fire, would be heard a loud peal of 
merry laughter ; and were it not for the occasional clang of arms, 
and the sonorous challenging of the posted sentinels, the scene 
might have been taken for some gay festival, instead of the stern 
camp of American warriors. Gradually all became still and 
hushed in repose ; and thus slumbered the army, to awaken only 
to more novel and exciting scenes. 

At daylight on the 19th of September, the troops again moved 
forward in the following order of battle, on the road to Monterey : 
Capt. Gillespie's company in the advance, followed by McCul- 
loch's, and the remainder of our regiment. Col. Hays', which we 
had now joined for the first time, our company having been here- 
tofore detached ; then came Col. Woods's Eastern Texas Rangers, 
the brigade under the command of Maj. Gen. Henderson ; the First 
Division followed, under Gen. Twiggs, and the Second Division, 
under Gen. Worth, while the Third Division of volunteers, under 
Gen. Butler, brought up the rear. Advancing in solid battalions, and 
moving as it were like the ocean's swell, with the sun's rays gUt- 
tering upon the arms of the dark and serried ranks, and the bright 
artillery flashing in the midst, they formed a noble and imposing 
pageantry. As the army moved on. Gen. Taylor and staff were 
seen advancing to the head of the column. A low murmur of 
admiration rose in the ranks as the general passed, bowing to both 
men and ofiicers, who saluted him as he rode by, when a voice 
was heard saying, " Boys, the general himself is going to lead us 
forth to battle !" 

The road we now passed over was lined on each side with cul- 
tivated fields and occasional jacals, or huts. When about three 



142 ARRIVAL BEFORE THE CITY. 

miles from Monterey, we passed a beautiful walnut grove on our 
left, the largest timber we had yet seen in Mexico. As we ad- 
vanced towards the city, a heavy fog rested on the surface and the 
surrounding heights, conceahng nearly every thing from our view, 
but which became gradually dissipated by the sun. At 8, a. m., 
we arrived within about 1500 yards of the city, when we were 
ordered to halt. The scene before us was magnificent and sub- 
hme. There lay the rich and lovely valley of Monterey, a beau- 
tiful undulating plain, while in its centre, between the Saddle 
mountain and another chain of the Sierra del Madre, lay concealed 
the capita] of Nueva Leon; the towering steeple of the Cathedral 
alone being visible to mark its situation. Off to the right was the 
Citadel, from whose battlements a flag occasionally flaunted list- 
lessly to the breeze, and then hung in folds again, struggling as it 
were to maintain its proud display. To the left could be seen the 
avenues leading to the city, which were fortified by the batteries, 
and other works of the enemy. Still farther to the right, in the 
rear of the city, stood, on a high hill overlooking the whole, the 
Bishop's Palace, displaying from its turrets the black cross of the 
Holy Church, and the green, white, and red banner of Mexico ; 
while the tops of the adjacent heights were crowned Avith snow- 
white tents. Beautiful green fields met the eye on either side, 
and cattle were quietly grazing about, while mountains on every 
hand rose with their high peaks to heaven, tipped with white 
fleecy clouds, which contrasted beautifully with the bright green 
of the base of those nearer by. Not a soul was to be seen, and 
the mountains, the vale, and the city seemed alike undisturbed, 
and wrapped in the calm repose of nature : all was still, save the 
wild whistle of the forest bird. 

Soon, however, a blast from the Mexican trumpets came echo- 
ing over the plain, and along the outskirt of the walls was seen 
the Mexican cavalry in proud array, with lances bright, and pen- 
nons of red and green waving in the breeze, steadily advancing as 
it were to meet us. Our regiment, (Col. Hays',) was now or- 
dered to dismount and look to their arms. Mounting again, we 
formed in sections of five, and our bugle sounded a charge. We 
advanced in a brisk trot towards the foe, and were in the act of 
charging at a full gallop, when the enemy was seen to wheel, and 
retreat towards the city. We were immediately halted, when we 
were saluted from the Citadel, (see Map, letter N,) by its guns 
opening upon us with 12-pound shot, which was returned by a 
shout of defiance that rang wildly over the plain. The Mexicans 
had thought by this movement to entice us close in under the guns 
of their forts ; but the keen-sighted Hays saw the rwse, and having 
ordered a countermarch, we proceeded back to our former po- 



RECONNOITERING THE CITY. 143 

sition without sustaining any injury. In the mean time, Gen. 
Taylor and staff, with Major Mansfield, and a party of engineers, 
had proceeded to the right, in order to make an examination of the 
enemy's works, when a ball struck within twenty feet of Gen. 
Taylor, and came bounding up towards the group, showing that 
the enemy had got the range with their guns, the other balls having 
fallen short. The Rangers were now ordered to march back to a 
corn-field, through which ran a streamlet, where we watered and 
rested our horses for half an hour, when we again marched out 
on the plain. The enemy re-opened their fire, and the balls fre- 
quently, after tearing up the ground, would roll up to where we 
stood. We were kept marching and counter-marching before the 
enemy's batteries for some two hours, when we received orders to 
withdraw to the beautiful grove of San Domingo, which was 
christened " Walnut Springs," where Gen. Taylor pitched his 
camp. It was indeed a lovely spot. The tall forest trees afforded 
us both shade and shelter, while the silvery streams, and cool bub- 
bling springs, served to slake our thirst. The whole army which 
had hned the road for miles, had now come up. On hearing the 
firing of the guns from the Citadel, and our cheers, which were 
carried back from front to rear, and re-echoed through that long 
Hne, every man became electrified and filled with enthusiasm, and 
rushed forward, thinking that the battle had begun ; it was with 
difficulty, indeed, that they could be restrained from a run. 

The encampments were soon laid off, tents were pitched, and 
the soldiers prepared dinner. In the afternoon. Major Mansfield, 
Capt. John Sanders and Lieut. Scarritt, of the engineer depart- 
ment, and Lieut. Meade of the topographical engineers, supported 
by Capt. Pike, Graham's squadron of dragoons, and Capt. Gilles- 
pie's Texas Rangers, went out to make a reconnoissance towards 
the Saltillo road, while Capt. Williams, of the topographical engi- 
neers, with Capt. Ridgely, of the artillery, and others, proceeded at 
the same time to make a reconnoissance of the eastern approaches. 
The batteries of the enemy kept playing during the afternoon, as 
the different parties would approach their works. Large foraging 
parties of the Rangers also went out, and brought in several pri- 
soners, among whom was the spy ^^ Heronimo.^^ He was again 
brought up for examination before Gen. Taylor, but evaded or 
refused to answer all important questions. In order to gain the 
information, he was threatened to be hung; and, as we were 
informed, it was only when the fellow felt the rope tighten around 
his neck, that he promised to tell the truth, after which he was 
sent off to the guard-house. At dark, the reconnoitering parties 
came in. The day closed without any farther incident, and the 
sun sank behind the mountains, leaving its gorgeous hues veiled 



144 THE NIGHT BEFORE THE BATTLE. 

by a murky mist, which at last became wrapt in the dark folds of 
night. Nothing more then occurred to disturb the sweet repose 
of the peaceful valley of Monterey, though in its dark forests was 
planning an attack that was soon to awaken it to scenes of carnage 
and bloodshed, and shake its very centre with the dread roar of 
musketry and artillery. Arrangements were now made to make 
a further reconnoissance in the direction of the works overlooking 
the Bishop's Palace, (see letter E,) towards the Saltillo road, to 
ascertain the practicabiHty of making a circuitous route in the rear 
of the town, for the purpose of turning the position of the enemy, 
and cutting off their line of communication ; as it was currently 
reported that Santa Anna was advancing with a powerful force to 
the rehef of the beleaguered city. Although all appeared per- 
fectly quiet, yet great preparations were being made, and the heavy 
sound of wagon teams, with the clang of dragoon sabres, and the 
tread of horses, were now and then distinctly heard. The expe- 
dition, under Col. Duncan, was greatly favoured by the darkness 
of the night, and about 11, p. m., the party came in safe, having 
made a detour of some five miles, in which they were perfectly 
successful, and proved the practicabiHty of the scheme. 

During the night we made some thirty prisoners. Towards 
morning, a drizzhng rain fell, and around the guard-fires were seen 
groups of men, wrapped in their blankets, guarding the prisoners, 
and amusing each other by recounting tales, and speculating on the 
events of the coming day. Thus passed the night, and many a 
scene might be described, afibrding food for mirth, and presenting 
subjects for the artist's pencil. Towards morning it became raw 
and unpleasant, and for those who had no tents, very disagreeable, 
as the rain still continued to fall. Thus ended our first night of 
encampment at " Walnut Springs," near the city of Monterey. 




5Alt;llo * ■ 



^ 




i\\\ jl Lrawii hij LieuL. Ceo. MtaiLt, i. S. loj/o^/r.qihUul Evgitieers. 



^■^E^lROUTE 



./ 





ROAD 



w^el 



TAYLOR'S CAMP 



K. 
L. 
M. 

N. 
O. 
PQR. 



2. 

3&4. 
5. 



liegeudi 



Mexican Ambuscade of the 

20th September. 
Yard into which Mexicans 

fired at nightfall on 20th 
Charge of Mexican Lancers 

on morning of 21st 
Position of 2nd Division on 

21st 
Lonia Independencia. Height 

stormed by Col. Childs on 

the 22d 
Bishop's Palace carried on 

22d 
Loma Federacion. Height 

stormed by Captain Smith's 

party on the 21st 
Ft. Soldada. Redoubt stormed 

by General Smith on the 

21st 
Arista's house and garden 
Church and Cemetery with 

loopholes for musketry 
Plazuela de Came 
Small Plaza 
Grand Plaza 
Citadel 

Mortar Battery. 
Position occupied by onr 

troops on the morning of 

the 24th 
Camp of 2d Division night of 

Sept 20th 
Fort Ten^ria. Redoubt of 4 

guns assaulted and carried 

on the morning of the 21st 

by 1st and 3d Divisions 
Fort El Diablo. Redoubt of 3 
Breast works [guns 

Redoubt of 4 guns 
Line of barricades 
Buildings of different kinds 



FORTIFICATIONS OF MONTEREY. 149 



CHAPTER XV. 

Description of the Fortifications at Monterey — General Taylor's military 
Talent — His Character — Gen. Worth — Enumeration of his Division — Anec- 
dote of Gen. Taylor — The March and Detour of the Second Division — The 
Movement discovered by the Enemy — Diversion made by the First and 
Third Divisions — Arrival of the Second Division at the Pescaria Grande 
Road — The Reconnoissance — The Ambuscade — Heroic Act of Lieut. 
McMullen — Camp at the Jacales— The Attack on Pigs and Poultry— The 
Surprise and Attack, by the Mexican Cavalry — Their Repulse with Loss — ■ 
Incidents of the Night — Our dreary Situation — The superiority of the Ene- 
my's Forces and Defences. 

As daylight dawned on Sunday morning, the 20th of Sep- 
tember, the heavy clouds and drizzling rain, that still pre- 
vailed, shut out the sunlight, and made the scene around as 
gloomy as it before had been bright. Before we proceed farther 
to relate the operations of our army, it will be necessary to give 
to the reader the situation of the enemy's defences and fortifica- 
tions, in order that the movements and positions of the different 
divisions of our troops, in storming the city of Monterey, may be 
fully understood. We shall commence by describing the works 
and fortifications of the enemy, which were stormed by the First 
and Third Divisions on Gen. Taylor's side. On reference to the 
Map, the reader will see the situation of the works as described. 

No. 1. A strong redoubt of masonry of four faces, with an 
open gorge of ten feet, prepared for four guns, overlooked and 
commanded by a large stone house in the rear, prepared with 
sand-bags and loop-holes for infantry. 

No. 2. Strong redoubt of four faces, open gorge of twenty feet, 
prepared for three guns. 

No. 3. Fleches of masonry for infantry, and breast-works. 

No. 4. Strong redoubt for one gun, not occupied by the enemy. 

No. 5. Tete-de-pont in front of the bridge of the Purisina, a 
strong work of masonry for three guns. 

No. 6. A strong redoubt of masonry for four guns, overlooking 
the approaches from Cadareyta, and commanding the gorge of 
No. 2. 

No. 7. A strong redoubt of masonry for three guns, overlooked 
and commanded by a large stone house, prepared for infantry 
with loop-holes and sand-bags. 

Nos. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7, were connected by breastworks of 
earth and brush for infantry, thus forming a complete line of de- 
fence from 4 to 7. Barricades of masonry, twelve feet thick, 
with embrasures for guns, were met with in every direction. 

13* 



150 GENERAL TAYLOR. 

The house-tops and garden walls were loopholed throughout 
the city, and prepared with sand-bags for infantry defence. 

These strong works defended the eastern and southern ap- 
proaches ; while the Citadel, (see letter N,) a large rectangular 
stone building, the walls only standing, surrounded by an enclosed 
work of sohd masonry, of four bastioned fronts, and prepared for 
thirty-one guns, commanded and protected the northern ap- 
proaches. The following works defended the western approaches, 
which were stormed by the Second (Gen. Worth's) Division. 

F. The Bishop's Castle, containing four guns. 

E. A strong redoubt on the height called " Independencia^^* 
leading doAvn to the Bishop's Palace, or castle, which had in posi- 
tion two guns. 

G. A battery of two guns on Federation Hill, leading to Fort 
Soldada. 

H. Fort Soldada, containing in position one gun. 

Gen. Taylor, after having made a reconnoissance of the posi- 
tion and principal works of the enemy, as well as circumstances 
would permit, with that sagacity, military combination, and con- 
centration, which so few were then willing to give him credit for, 
saw with the quick observation and discernment of a skilful and 
scientific chess-player, the assailable points of the enemy, and 
determined at once upon the plan of attack. The city was so 
thoroughly fortified on the east side, that it became necessary to 
gain the enemy's rear, and attack and carry the almost impreg- 
nable positions on the west side in the reverse, in order to break 
the concentrated force of the Mexicans, and thus give to the 
American army two chances of success ; whereas by making an 
attack in the front, or eastern side, we had scarcely any at all. 
Noble, magnanimous, and generous in heart ; calm and collected 
on the field of battle ; though his iron determination, and the 
rapid revolution of military movements in his mind made him 
the stern warrior, and which, when thwarted, caused his impetuous 
blood to rise at inaction, delay, or failure ; yet the commander-in- 
chief ever held in view the comfort of his soldiers, and no one ever 
appealed to him in vain for the redress of grievances or wrongs. 

Preparations were accordingly made to gain the Saltillo road, 
and for this important object Gen. Taylor generously confided the 
expedition to the command of Gen. Worth, ivho had been pre- 
vented by circumstances from participating in the late battles of 
" Palo Alto" and " Resaca de la Palma." With all the impetuosity 
and eagerness of a war-steed chafing under the curb which held 
his progress in check, he had longed for the hour to come when 
he should once more take the field against the foe. That hour 
had arrived, and to a brave and gallant spirit had the trust been 



ANECDOTE OF GENERAL TAYLOR. 151 

reposed. Orders were accordingly given to Gen. Worth to pro- 
ceed with his division, by a circuitous route, around tlie hill of 
the Bishop*s Palace and carry the heights, or detached works, 
in the enemy's rear. For the sake of accuracy, we will again 
enumerate the force of this division. The First Brigade, com- 
manded by Lieut. Col. Staniford, consisted of Lieut. CoL Duncan's 
battery of horse-artillery, Lieut. CoL Child's artillery battalion, 
composed of the following companies : Company K, of the 2d 
regiment, companies A and B, of the 3d regiment, and companies 
G, H, and I, of the 4th regiment, acting as infantry ; and the 8th 
regiment of the infantry, under Capt. Scriven. The Second Bri- 
gade, commanded by Brig. Gen. P. F. Smith, (colonel of rifles,) 
was composed of Lieut. Mackall's battery of horse-artillery, the 
5th Infantry, to which was attached Capt. Blanchard's company 
of Louisiana volunteers, under Maj. Martin Scott ; and the 7th 
Infantry, under Capt. Miles. Col. Hays' regiment of mounted 
Texas Rangers also accompanied the division, numbering in all 
about 2000 effective men. 

It was now about 9 o'clock, a. m., when the sun showed his 
bright face over the mountain tops, and the day became clear and 
serene. Orders were issued to our regiment, Col. Hays', to get 
ready for a march. A thousand rumors were afloat as to where 
we were going and Vv^hat was to be done. The general impression 
prevailed that we were to escort Col. Duncan to plant his artillery. 
From the delay which ensued, however, it was soon apparent 
that a more important movement was to take place. The whole 
camp was astir, and orderlies were seen running to and fro carry- 
ing messages. We took this opportunity to make a few calls on 
some friends, whom we had not seen since we joined the army, 
on account of our position in the advance. Passing the head- 
quarters of Gen. Taylor, our attention was attracted to a line of 
some fifteen or twenty delinquents, regulars and volunteers, who 
were brought up before the general for reprimand. We were 
surprised to see with what patience the general listened to each 
man's excuse or complaint. On the extreme left of the hne stood 
a volunteer over six feet in height, and stout in proportion, who, 
on being asked what he had to say, repHed : 

" Why, we haven't had any bread for two days, and mighty little 
to eat, any how; and you see, general, a man can't fight well 
without he gets somethin' to eat." 

" Very well," said the general, turning to the officer, " see that 
every man has as much as he can eat, and I'll see that they have 
plenty of fighting." 

The squad was dismissed well pleased — one fellow observing 
that " the general was on their side, any how," and, as soon as 



152 THE DETOUR OF THE SECOND DIVISION. 

they got at a respectful distance, they seconded the motion of one 
of the party to give "0/rf Zack^^ a cheer, which was forthwith 
put into execution. 

About noon our regiment was ordered to m.ove, and we took up 
the hne of march towards the plaza, when we struck off to the 
right, through the chaparral towards some corn-fields. A com- 
pany of pioneers was sent in the advance with Lieut. McCown, 
under Capt. Sanders, to cut a passage through the chaparral 
fences, so as to make the road practicable for artillery, which had 
now come up with the rest of the conunand of the Second Divi- 
sion. Our progress was very slow, as we had many difficulties 
to overcome. By the time Ave reached the Monclova road, it was 
discovered that the enemy had perceived our movement, and large 
bodies of infantry could be seen advancing at a run from the 
Bishop's Palace towards the height above it.- In order to divert 
the attention of the enemy. Gen. Taylor, who also perceived their 
movements, ordered out the First and Third Divisions before the 
city, thus making a manifestation in our favour. We pushed on 
without interruption until we reached the Pescaria Grande road, 
when we could plainly see the tents of the enemy on Loma In- 
depende?icia, or Independence Hill — their cannon being concealed 
from our view. Here we found a neighbourhood-road leading 
around the base of some high hills on our right towards the great 
Saltillo road, where the head of the column halted for the remain- 
der of the command to come up. ,In the mean time, Gen. Burle- 
son, of Texas, with about twenty men, proceeded along the base 
of the hill, while Col. Hays and Lieut. Cols. Duncan and Walker, 
with Captain McCulloch and Col. Peyton, late of the Louisir 
ana volunteers, ascended the hill to reconnoitre. While these 
officers were riding on the brow of the hill. Gen. Worth came up 
with Lieut. Wood of his staff, and also ascended the hill. Soon 
after. Gen. Burleson rode up, and, inquiring for Gen. Worth, re- 
ported that he had met the enemy's pickets, and that a large force, 
consisting of cavalry and infantry, was approaching from the turn 
or point of the hill beyond, with the evident intention of disputing 
our further progress. Our position at once became very critical, 
and the presence of Gen. Worth was immediately required. Mr. 
Kendall here volunteered his services, and proceeded after Gen. 
Worth, who by this time had disappeared far to the right, on the 
brow of the hill. A little after, all the officers, except McCulloch, 
were seen coming down. Gen. Worth, on his arrival, ordered a 
detachment of McCulloch's company, under Lieut. Kelly, to pro- 
ceed and join the detachment of Capt. Gillespie's compan}^ — Gens. 
Worth and Smith, Col. Hays, and Lieut. Cols. Duncan and Walker, 
with Gen. Burleson, taking the advance, while they were supported 



SKIRMISHES WITH THE ENEMY. 153 

by the rest of the Texians and a body of infantry. Turning a bend 
in the road, at a mountain gorge on our right, where the enemy's 
scouts were discovered, we halted at some jacales on our left ; 
here the men filled their canteens with water from the wells, 
while Gens. Worth and Smith again ascended another of a chain 
of hills on our right, to examine more closely the defences of 
Loma Independencia, and the assailable points of the enemy's 
works. As we had not yet met with any opposition from the 
enemy, it was determined to reconnoitre as far as the Saltillo road. 
Col. Hays ordered some four or five men to stay on the top of the 
hill to keep a look-out, and make a signal should the enemy show 
himself in numbers, while the advance proceeded on. We had 
not moved more than a thousand yards farther before it was dis- 
covered that a body of Mexican infantry and dismounted cavalry 
(who had descended from the other side of Loma Independencia, 
and wound around its base to conceal themselves from us) had 
sought cover about seventy yards from the road in some corn-fields 
on our left, while another body lay concealed in the fence cor- 
ners. We were now immediately opposite and in point-blank 
range of the gun battery of Independence Hill, (see A on the 
map,) when the enemy in ambush saluted us with a shower of 
musket and scopet balls — the guns from the battery of Fort Inde- 
pendence at the same time opening a fire of shell and shot. A 
retrograde movement was immediately ordered, as it was the evi- 
dent intention of the enemy to cut us off* before we could join our 
main force. So heavy was the fire that the balls struck all around 
us, cutting the chaparral on every side. A shell fell on the field 
between us and the Mexicans, and bursted with a loud report, 
tearing up the ground and corn, but doing us no injury. The 
advance consisted of not over thirty men, and a race now took 
: place, which w^e never entered for, to see who should gain our 
[main force first, the Mexicans or ourselves. Many of our horses, 
lalarmed at the bursting of the shells, became unmanageable, and 
started off* with their riders at a break-neck pace, running over 
'every thing in their way. We were knocked out of our saddle on 
|this occasion, and hung with one foot in the stirrup, with our right 
jhand clinging to the mane — our horse running with us in this 
position for nearly a hundred yards before we recovered ourself. 
Behind us still was one of our comrades completely unhorsed, while 
the enemy's cavalry were within fifty yards of him. The heroic 
land gallant Lieut. John McMullen saw his danger, and, check- 
(ing his steed, wheeled, and, without dismounting, seized his com- 
<rade, and as quick as lightning threw him on his horse, in the 
Iface, and almost very grasp of the enemy, and bore him safe to 
amp ! Our rear in the meantime, however, had returned the 



154 INCIDENTS OF THE NIGHT. 

enemy's fire in the most spirited manner, doing good execution, 
and beautifully coA'ering our retreat — thus preserving the advance 
from being cut off. Miraculous to say, not a man was hurt. 

Our regiment hearing the firing had come up at a gallop, but 
it was now nearly sundown, and we were ordered to encamp in 
the yard of some jacales on the road side, (see B on the Map,) for 
the night. The men were tired and hungry, as we had eaten 
nothing since breakfast. The yard was filled with pigs and 
goats ; and the chickens had sought the trees to roost. An im- 
mediate attack was now commenced upon the former with stones 
and swords, and many a laugh was had at the unsuccessful racing 
that was going on. While at the same time others ascended the 
trees, and commenced an assault upon the chickens. In the 
very height of our fun, and before we had time to unsaddle our 
horses, which stood hitched around the houses, we received a rat- 
tling fire of scopets from about five hundred of the enemy's 
cavalry, who had suddenly come upon us, and had taken position 
on the point of a hill near by, overlooking our place of encampment. 
The tables were now turned, to the evident dehght of the pigs and 
chickens, and such a getting down out of trees and scampering 
generally as then took place, afforded us many a hearty laugh 
afterwards. 

Col. Hays, with his noted presence of mind, immediately 
formed the men under cover of the chaparral fence, to repulse a 
charge, while Acklen's and Ballowe's companies (dismounted) 
formed out in the road. The Texians gave a yell, and repulsed 
the enemy with considerable loss, while only one or two of our 
men were slightly wounded. This skirmish took place betwe^'1 
sundown and dark, and immediately after a heavy shower of ram 
came up, while we were yet under arms, and which put a stop to 
farther proceedings. We were kept in our positions more than 
an hour, while the rain fell in torrents, drenching us to the skin. 
The two companies in the meanwhile had come in and reported 
that the enemy had retreated to the Saltillo road. The picket- 
guard was then detailed, and the men ordered to look to their 
horses. In examining the httle houses, or jacale&, in the yard we 
found the doors all locked and barricaded. The heavy pole at 
the well, which had been used for drawing water, was now made 
use of as a battering ram, which soon opened the doors for us. In 
the largest house, we found any quantity of dry corn, belonging 
to the Mexican government, which was joyfully seized, and plen- 
tifully fed to our poor horses. 

The yard being within range of the battery on Independence 
Hill, we were not permitted to light fires to cook, for fear of dis- 
closing our position. About nine o'clock, Gen. Worth came into 



THE NIGHT OF THE TWENTIETH. 155 

the corn-house, and by a dim hght of com shucks wrote with a 
pencil a hurried note to Gen. Taylor, informing him of the events 
of the afternoon, and suggesting that a diversion should be made 
in his favour, on the next day, as it was evident his farther 
advance would be strenuously opposed. The command had all 
come up, and encamped near us on the road-side. The pack- 
mules and provisions of the Rangers had been left behind at camp, 
so that we had not even a piece of bread with us, and many of us 
were in our shirt-sleeves, having left our jackets and blankets be- 
hind, under the impression that we were to return that night to 
camp. The regulars, also, were nearly as bad off as ourselves, 
for the wagon train contained scanty rations for four days only, 
with little or no chance to cook. In the field of active service, 
there is but little difference in regard to comforts, and all formali- 
ties of rank, farther than obeying orders, are thrown aside ; for 
there is something on the battle-field that tells us we are but men, 
the hues of distinction become effaced, and the soldier and the 
officer share ahke. The Mexicans had shut off the water from 
above, which irrigated the fields where we had encamped, and 
we remember the grateful draught that we scooped up in a tin 
cup from the draining run, as it became nearly exhausted, as one 
of the most refreshing that ever passed our lips. What few could, 
occupied the houses, while the rest lay down on the cold wet 
ground. But few horses were unsaddled, the girths being merely 
loosened to give them rest. The night was passed in hourly 
expectation of an attack, or surprise. Cold, cheerless, and hun- 
gry, the men lay sleeping on their arms, while all around prevailed 
^'^loomy quiet: our slumber was uneasy and broken, for at the 
slightest noise, the men would awake and grasp their arms, and 
then hearing no alarm, would as quickly again fall off to sleep. 

During the night, on Gen. Taylor's side of the city, two twenty- 
four pound howitzers and a ten-inch mortar were placed in bat- 
tery, so as to play upon the town and citadel on the next morning. 
At dark, all the troops were withdrawn from before the town, 
except the 4th Infantry, which was left to protect this battery 
during the night.. Such then was the position of Gen. Taylor's 
army on the night of the 20th. Every thing was yet to be done, 
the enemy having every advantage over us. It was known that 
their forces were far superior to ours, and the defences of the 
city such, that to insure success, fortified as they were by the 
strongest works on every side, to say nothing of the natural de- 
fences of the mountains, gorges, and hills — it would be necessary 
to carry their strong positions by storm. And this it was felt 
would be attended with the greatest sacrifice before we should be 
able to take the city. ^ 



156 DISCOVERY OF THE ENEMY. 

Having brought up the incidents and movements of the army 
until its occupation of the position before Monterey, we here take 
leave of the kind reader, and devote to the picturing of more stir- 
ring events, a new chapter. 



CHAPTER XVI. 

The First Day of the Battle — Discovery of the Enemy — The Cavalry Charge — 
Death of Lieut. Col. Najera — The enemy's Defeat — Incidents of the Charge — 
Anecdote of a Ranger — An Irish Teamster — Military skill of Gen. Taylor — 
The First and Third Divisions — Gen. Worth gains the Saltillo road — Maj. 
Brown occupies the Mill at St. Catarina — The critical position of Gen. 
Worth — His military bearing — The Storming^ of Federation Hill and Fort 
Soldada — The Retreat of the Enemy — Lieut. Pitcher's Chalk Marks — Noble 
act of Lieut. Geo. Deas — A wild Scene^ — A touching Sight — Generalship of 
Worth — The close of the Day — Suffering of the Troops — A storm at Night — 
Mexican Hospitality — Description of a Mexican Woman — Preparations for the 
Morrow. 

As the day gradually dawned on the 21st of September, the soft 
gleams of light presented to our view the surrounding mountains, 
vales and hills clothed in samite green. The hallowed stillness of 
the hour seemed to proclaim eternal peace, and as we cast our eye 
towards Independence Hill, we half-doubted that only on the eve- 
ning of the day before, we had heard from its summit the booming 
roar of its battery. The men were awakened from their slumbers, 
and without breakfast were ordered to renew the line of march. All 
wet as we were, we mounted into the saddle, McCuUoch's company 
taking the advance, followed by the whole regiment of Rangers, 
while the remainder of the division came up in close order of bat- 
tle. We had proceeded about a mile and a half, when at a turn 
in the road, near a hacienda, called San Jeronimo, we came in 
full view of the enemy's forces, cavalry and infantry, numbering 
about 1500, drawn up in battle array. The Saltillo road, and the 
corn-fields near it, seemed filled with infantry. The head of our 
column was immediately halted, and Col. Hays' regiment ordered 
to deploy by company to the right, and dismount ; which we did, 
forming into a small guUey. The hght companies of the First 
Brigade, under Capt. C. F. Smith and J. B. Scott, supported us 
with Duncan's light artillery, followed by the battalions and heads 
of columns. Thus drawn up in order of battle, the two forces 
stood eyeing each other, at the distance of two hundred yards, 
when they approached slowly and opened a fire from their sco- 
pets, the battery on Independence Hill at the same time open- 
ing on the column. The Rangers were now ordered to mount, 
advance f^on the enemy, and take position by the fence, on 



THE CAVALRY CHARGE. 



157 



the road-side, when they returned the enemy's fire with their 
rifles, and then dismounted under cover of the fence. McCul- 
loch being on the extreme right did not get this order in time, and, 
seeing the lancers preparing for a charge, gallantly led up his 
men to meet them. On they came, at a full gallop, led by their 
brave Lieut. Col. Juan N. Najera, in dashing style, with pennons 
of green and red fluttering in the wind. McCulloch received 
them with a leaden rain of rifles, pistols, and shot guns ; while 
the Texians at the fence poured in upon them a deadly fire. The 
clash was great, and at the shock, the host moved to and fro, as 
the forest bends beneath the storm ; but our horses were too pow- 
erful to be overcome, and many were made the empty saddles that 
had borne the enemy's bravest men. We saw their lieutenant colo- 
nel fall, while in the thickest of the fight, and exhorting his men 
to rally and stand firm. He was a tall, splendid-looking fellow, 
with a fierce moustache, and beautiful teeth, which were set hard, 
as he lay on the ground with his face partly turned up, his eyes 
yet glassy in the struggle of death, and his features depicting 
the most marked determination. McCulloch's men were now 
engaged hand to hand with the enemy's lancers, using their five- 
shooters, while some few beat back the enemy with their swords. 
We were at this time within three hundred yards of the Saltillo 
road, with a corn-field on our left, and a high hill on our right, 
[see Map, letter C] The light companies, in the mean time, 
and Duncan's artillery, had opened their fire, and the enemy was 
borne back with great slaughter, carrying with them a portion 
of McCulloch's men, who had fought their way nearly to the 
enemy's centre, and seeing their peril, were fighting their way 
back. Then it was that the hardest struggle took place. Arm- 
strong, one of our company, was unhorsed by a lancer, having 
received two wounds ; yet on foot, with sword in hand, he de- 
fended himself against two of the enemy. He killed one, when 
an Irishman from the artillery battalion discovered his situation, 
and saying that he did not know whether he had buck or ball 
in, as he drew up his musket, but that he had better kill them 
both than to miss the Mexican, fired and saved the Ranger! 
Fielding Alston, and J. F. Minter, also of our company, while 
fighting gallantly, received two lance wounds. Young Musson 
of New Orleans, who had joined our corps, was engaged at the 
I same time, with a captain of cavalry, hand to hand in a sword 
I fight, and at one time became very nearly overpowered ; when 
I asked why he did not shoot his foe, repHed, with true southern chi- 
( valry, that " the Mexican had no pistol, and it would have been 
I taking an advantage over him !" As another of our men was being 
I overcome by a Mexican, the gallant Capt. Cheshire, a private in the 

14 



158 DEFEAT OF THE MEXICANS. 

Rangers, dashed up to his rescue, and having no fire, seized a holster 
pistol, and with the butt end of it, felled the Mexican to the ground. 

McCulloch had been twice borne back with the Mexicans, and 
making a desperate struggle to gain his company, he put his horse 
to his speed, running every thing down in his way, and regained 
his command without a scratch ! The Mexicans had taken to the 
hills, and the regular skirmishers, or light companies under Capts. 
Smith and Scott, continued their fire over our heads, killing by ac- 
cident one of the Rangers. About this time, Capt. Gutierrez, of 
the enemy's cavalry, who had received three wounds, was also 
killed ; he died fighting to the last, one of the most courageous of 
his race. As the Mexicans gave way, the hght companies rushed 
up the hills, firing over the ridge at the retreating enemy, who 
were routed and flying in every direction. Parties of our infan- 
try, who had gained the corn-fields, were also picking off the Mex- 
ican infantry, who were rapidly retreating in the road leading to 
the city. While the Mexicans w^ere flying over the hill, the 
Texians also, with their unerring rifles, poured on them a most 
destructive fire, and in several instances, both horse and rider 
w^ere seen to bound some feet into the air, and then fall dead, tum- 
bhng down the hill. This most brilliant action lasted about fifteen 
minutes, during which time 150 of the enemy were killed and 
wounded ; while on our part the loss was trifling. Several of 
McCulloch's men were severely wounded by the enemy's lancers, 
and our regiment lost only one killed. The squadron that had so 
bravely charged McCulloch, w^ere nearly all cut to pieces. Lieut. 
Col. Walker, as well as many others, had their horses severely 
wounded. Amid the scene of carnage, lay stretched out some of 
their bravest men in gaudy uniforms, and many a broken lance lay 
here and there, while the road and hill-side were lined with their 
dead horses, beautifully caparisoned, the saddles ornamented with 
silver mountings, presenting a wild and ghastly scene. Thirty-two 
of their dead were buried in one pit. 

We had now gained that part of the Saltillo road which led 
directly to the city, along the base of Independence Hill. Dun- 
can's horse artillery, (one of the six-pounders being served by 
Lieut. Hays,) and Mackall's battery, were drawn up, and placed 
in position on the slope of the ridge, near a (ew jacales at the junc- 
tion of the roads, and opened a fire upon the breastwork of sand- 
bags on the hill of the Bishop's Palace. The artillery battalion, 5th, 
7th and 8th Infantry, were formed on each side of the road, while the 
Texians, dismounted, having hitched their horses at the fence near 
the jacales, were ordered to deploy to the right, through the corn- 
fields, which extended towards the Rio San Juan.de Monterey, to 
act in the advance as skirmishers ; an attack being expected from 



ANECDOTE OF A RANGER. 159 

a large body of infantry, which had retreated from the support of 
the cavalry, and cowardly left it to its fate, and now formed at the 
foot of the hill of the Bishop's Palace. We advanced through the 
corn-fields by single file, for about 300 yards, and formed along the 
fence on the road-side. At this time, a battery of two heavy guns 
from Loma de Federacion, or Federation Hill, (see Map, letter G.,) 
which we had not before discovered, opened upon us a galling fire 
of round-shot, the balls striking into the very midst of our troops; 
the nine-pounder from Independence Hill continuing to throw its 
shot at the same time, with great precision, at our batteries. With 
such skill did the Mexican gunners serve their pieces, that several 
shot fell directly in the midst of our artillery, but fortunately did 
no injury. It was at this time, while the shot of the enemy flew 
so thick, that one of our number was ordered by Col. Hays to 
ascend a large tree, in the corn-field, and reconnoitre the Mexican 
infantry. The Ranger reported, that the enemy kept their posi- 
tion, without any seeming intention of advancing ; and receiving 
no order to descend, being within direct range of the enemy's bat- 
tery, and the shot flying high, he asked the colonel if he should 
come down. 

" No, sir," said Hays, " wait for orders." 

Soon after, the Texians were directed to return, when they 
moved rapidly ofT, leaving the Ranger up the tree ; and Hays' 
attention being called to the fact, he ran back, and cried out, 

" Holloa, there — where are the Mexicans V 

"Going back up the hill," rephed the Ranger, without know- 
ing who it was that addressed him. 

" Well, hadn't you better come down from there," said Hays. 

"I don't know," said the Ranger, "I am waiting for orders 1"^ 

" Well, then, I order you down," said Hays. 

The Ranger, discovering it to be his colonel, without waiting 
for a second call, like Martin Scott's coon, forthwith descended 
from the tree. 

The batteries of Duncan and Mackall, doing but httle execu- 
tion, and being so entirely exposed, as well as our troops. General 
Worth ordered the command to take position about 800 yards far- 
ther on the Saltillo road, near a sugar rancho, out of the range 
of the enemy's batteries : (see Map, letter D.) As the division 
was moving up, Capt. McKavett, of the 8th Infantry, received 
a round-shot in the hip, from Fort Independence, and was instantly 
killed, and a serjeant of the same regiment wounded. A horse 
in Capt. Duncan's light artillery was also killed. The rear of 
the division, as it passed in range, received a shower of shot 
and shell from the Mexican batteries. The wagon train, particu- 
larly, as it came ratthng along at rapid speed, received marked 



160 MILITARY SKILL OF GENERAL TAYLOR. 

attention ; the Mexicans supposing that they were filled with our 
troops, judging us by their own low cunning tricks. As a team 
turned an angle in the road, a shot passed under one of the leader 
mules, the windage of which made the animal crouch to the earth ; 
when the Irish teamster cracking his whip, was heard to exclaim, 
»' Up out of that, ye divil ye, no time for squatting now, sure !" 

Gen. Worth's note, written, as we have seen, the night pre- 
vious, reached Gen. Taylor early the next morning. The general 
having already contemplated, before its reception, to make a strong 
diversion against the centre and left of the town, in order to cover 
the designs of Gen. Worth in gaining the Saltillo road, and in tak- 
ing the heights, had planted a battery accordingly, the same night. 
The military skill of General Taylor is here evident, and shows 
his talent of perception ; at the same time the calculation which he 
had made Avill appear more striking, as the sequel of events will 
show. 

As soon, then, as he judged that Gen. Worth had become en- 
gaged with the enemy, the fire of his mortar and howitzer bat- 
tery was opened on the city and citadel, and the loud roar of Ame- 
rican artillery was heard to respond to the Mexican batteries on 
the heights, and re-echo through the \'alley and hills. The First 
Division of regulars under Brig. Gen. Twiggs, and the Third, as 
we have designated the volunteers under Maj. Gen. Butler, were 
marched before the town, leaving only one company of each regi- 
ment to guard the camp. The 2d Dragoons under Lieut. Col. 
May, and Col. Wood's Texian Rangers, under Gen. Henderson, 
were ordered towards the northern approaches to make a demon- 
stration upon the upper part of the city, as well as to support 
Gen, Worth, should it become necessary. We shall presently see, 
as Gen. Taylor expected, that the Mexicans misconstrued the feint 
or object of the movement made, and thought that Worth had 
been sent around to favour the operations of Taylor, and, there- 
fore, when we had gained the Saltillo road, and engaged the ene- 
my, not imagining that we would venture to assault the heights, 
they drew back the large forces which they had sent over on the 
night of the 20th, upon perceiving the strong manifestations of 
attack made by Gen. Taylor on the following morning. 

The Second Division having taken up its position on the Sal- 
tillo road, along the base of a chain of hills, we now commanded a 
full view of the enemy's works and fortifications on the western 
and south-western sides ; at the same time holding the avenues of 
retreat and supplies, and preventing a reinforcement in the direc- 
tion of Saltillo. Having thus secured the gorges of that road, it 
became evident, before we could effect a lodgment in the city, or 
carry on any available operations against it, that it would be ne- 



CRITICAL POSITION OF GEN. WORTH. 161 

cessary to take by storm the batteries on the adjacent heights. 
It was now about 10, a. m., when a party of Rangers, who had 
been chasing some straggling lancers about three miles up the 
Saltillo road, near a stone mill at the narrow gorge of Santa Cata- 
rina, reported the advance of a body of the enemy's cavalry, from 
the south-east side of the town. Major Brown of the artillery bat- 
talion was immediately despatched with several of the light com- 
panies, a detachment of Mackall's battery, under Lieut. Irons, 
and a company of Texas Rangers, to take position and occupy the 
mill, on whose approach the enemy retired. At this time, the 
main body of the Texas Rangers was posted at the junction of the 
roads, near the sugar rancho, with the 5th and 7th Infantry. 

The position Gen. Worth then occupied might have been consi- 
dered as critical as it was dangerous. Separated from the main body 
of the army — his communication cut off, and no possible route less 
than eight miles to regain it — with but scanty supplies of provisions 
for only four days — surrounded by gorges and passes of the moun- 
tains, jfrom whose summits belched forth the destructive shot, shell, 
and grape ; he was liable at any moment to be attacked by an 
overwhelming force in the direction of SaJtillo, which had been 
reported to be daily expected, and which would have placed his 
command in the very jaws of the enemy. For, although holding 
the passes and gorges of the Saltillo road, yet a superior force from 
the advance would certainly have forced him back to, and have 
turned upon him the very passes which he then held. It was feared, 
too, from his im.petuous nature, that he would rush his command 
into unnecessary danger by some rash and desperate attempt. 
But it was not so. He was collected, calm, and cool, and bore 
himself with that proud, resolute, and commanding mien, giving 
his orders with promptness and decision, which inspired men and 
officers alike with confidence. He never appeared better than on 
that day ; and all felt that with Worth they were sure of victory. 
He knew that Gen. Taylor had staked the issue of the battle on 
him, and he felt the great and weighty responsibility that rested on 
the course he should pursue. As he surveyed with his glass the 
enemy's works before him, he seemed to feel that not a moment 
was to be lost. He saw at once that it would be necessary to 
carry by storm the battery on Federation Hill, situated on the 
right bank of the San Juan de Monterey, as well as the fort on the 
ridge of the same height, called Soldada, about six hundred yards 
from the battery, on the crest of the hill, (see Map, G and H,) 
{as these two batteries commanded the approaches from the Sal- 
itillo road, as well as the egress from the city. For this purpose, 
ICapt. C. F. Smith, of the 2d Artillery, was ordered to proceed 
with his own, and three companies of the artillery battalion, com- 

14* 



162 STORMING OF FEDERATION HILL. 

manded by Lieuts. Shackelford, Van Vliet, and Phelps — accom- 
panied by Lieut» Edward Deas, of the quartermaster's staff, and 
Lieut* Gibson, together with six companies of the Texas Rangers, 
(dismounted,) under our brave and gallant Major Chevalier, com- 
manded by Capts. Gillespie, Ballowe, McCulloch, Chandler, Green, 
and McGowan. The whole command numbering in all about 
three hundred men, more than half of whom were Rangers. 

It was now about twelve o'clock, and the meridian sun poured 
down its hottest rays. Before us stood the steep and rugged hill, 
about three hundred and eighty feet high, whose slopes were co- 
vered with thick and thorny chaparral. With a glass could be 
seen the swarm of Mexicans that crowned the height, while its 
cannon, which looked down in defiance at us, seemed to threaten 
with annihilation all who dared to approach. The daring of the 
expedition was thought to be one of the last hope ; and men looked 
forward to meet death calmly in the face, as they felt that it was 
only by great sacrifice that they could gain a victory. Gen. 
Worth rode up, as the command moved off, and pointing to the 
height, said : '•'Men, you are to take that hill — and I know you 
will do it,'''' With one response they replied, " We will." And 
those who before had felt a doubt as to its practicability, now be- 
came reanimated, and felt themselves invincible. The words of 
Worth had nerved every arm, and hearts swelled with that proud 
feeling of enthusiasm which make men indomitable before the foe. 
The command took up its line of march along the Saltillo road, 
and then struck off to the right, through fields of corn and sugar, 
in single file, in order to conceal, as far as possible, the movement 
from the enemy. On we hurried, in double-quick time, brustling 
through the rows of cane and corn, towards the river bank. It 
was soon evident that we were discovered, and while yet in the 
fields, the batteries opened upon us a fierce and plunging fire, en- 
veloping the crown of the hill with smoke, through Avhich could 
be seen the blazing of the cannon which seemed to vie with the 
sunbeam's glare. On we pressed, towards their murderous artil- 
lery, until we gained the bank of the rapid stream which we had 
to cross. Unprotected and exposed to the very face of the enemy, 
a terrific storm of shot and grape was now poured into our ranks. 
Nothing daunted, the men rushed into the sweeping current, waist 
deep, while the enemy's shot, as it struck the water, sent forth a 
hissing sound, and made the river boil and foam with the whistling 
windage of their venomous copper balls. Bravely did our men 
stem the current, amid the shower of galling grape, and soon we 
reached the opposite bank, and clambered up the rocky steep, 
without the loss of a man I 

We had now gained the cover of the thick chaparral, and the 




li;!'^ill„j';Ji!,;;iHiila 



STORMING OF FEDERATION HILL. 163 

command was halted for the men to take breath, as well as to let 
the water drain from their shoes and clothes. Large reinforce- 
ments of the enemy were arriving, and their sharp-shooters were 
seen descending the slopes of the hill in masses, and occupying 
favorable positions in order to make the most determined resist- 
ance. This was at once perceived by Gen. Worth, who was 
anxiously watching the movements of the enemy, and immediately 
ordered the 7th Infantry, under Capt. D. S. Miles, which was com- 
posed of only seven com. panics, commanded by Capts. T. H. Holmes, 
R. C. Gathn, R. H. Ross, G. R. Paul, D. P. Whiting, and Lieut. 
Humber, and the adjutant of the regiment, Lieut. Page, to our 
support. It was no longer necessary to attempt the concealment 
of our object, and therefore Capt. Miles marched directly for the 
foot of the height, and arrived under the fire of the enemy, before 
Capt. Smith's command had come up. Roar after roar of the 
enemy's musketry now rattled over the plain below. But Capt. 
Miles firmly kept his position, while Lieuts. Gantt, Gardner, and 
Little, of the 7th, were sent back with a small party to engage the 
attention of the enemy, until our force should arrive ; and while 
thus engaged, several of their men fell wounded. Hearing the 
roar of musketry, Capt. Smith ordered his men forward, antici- 
pating that the enemy was engaging our reinforcement. On we 
rushed for the base of the hill, while shower after shower of grape 
and musket balls rained down in torrents upon us. As we reached, 
the hill-side, we became protected from the enemy's artillery, 
which they could not depress so as to bring us within range. 
Here we met the 7th Infantry ; and as the men reached the base 
of the hill, a fire was immediately opened by the Texians, who 
commenced ascending the steep and rocky cliffs, pouring into the 
enemy the fire of their deadly rifles, which made them stagger 
and retreat towards the crest. The command steadily advanced, 
the regulars vicing with the Texians in gaining the height, and 
volley after volley was followed up by the wild cheers and shouts 
of the men, which, as we drove back the retreating foe, seemed 
to strike their hearts with terror. It was one incessant flash and 
peal of light arms. Inch by inch they disputed our ascent, 
until at last they gave way under our terrible fire. Bearing 
back the stricken foe, we carried the height with shouts of vic- 
tory, which, echoing again and again through the mountain glens, 
until they reached the valley below, met the response of our 
companions, as they saw the flag of the victors proudly waving 
ion the crest, and, swelhng upon the air, re-echoed back their loud 
I huzzas in approbation of our brilliant success. Here we captured 
a nine-pounder, the gun-carriage being overturned, with the evi- 
dent purpose of throwing it down the hill. But so hotly were 



164 STORMING OF FORT SOLDADA. 

they pressed, that they had not the time to carry out their inten- 
tion. In less than five minutes after the taking of this height, 
the cannon was remounted, under the direction of Lieut. Edward 
Deas, and turned upon the retreating enemy. 

In the mean time, Gen. Worth had ordered Brig. Gen. Smith 
to proceed and reinforce us with the 5th regiment, under Major 
Martin Scott, consisting of six companies, commanded by Capts. 
M. E. Merrill, Wm. Chapman, Lieuts. D. H. McPhail, N. B. 
Rossell, J. A. Whitall, and Mortimer Rosecrants, with Lieut. 
George Deas, adjutant of the regiment, and Capt. Blanchard's 
company of Louisiana Volunteers. Col. Hays accompanied the 
detachment with a party of the Texas Rangers, which had been 
ordered up as a further support. This command had now joined 
the 7th Infantry, and was seen advancing at a hurried pace along 
the southern side of the hill towards Fort Soldada, about a quarter 
of a mile from the battery on the crest of the same hill, a regular 
fortification, to which the enemy had retreated, and made a stand. 
As Gen. Smith rode up, he shouted to Capt. Smith to take the 
other fort, but the command was hardly necessary, for already 
were the Texians in hot pursuit of the enemy, while the 5th and 
7th were seen advancing in extended order up the hill. On 
rushed Chevaher, with his brave Texians, facing a storm of mur- 
derous grape, while the enemy's round-shot and musketry rattled 
like hail along the ridge of the hill. Without wavering, the com- 
mand of Gen. Smith advanced to the onslaught. From the hill- 
side, shout after shout went up, which told how close the 5th and 
7th, under Gen. Smith, were approaching the top of the height, 
while the cheers from the Texians, and Capt. Smith's command, 
as we drove in the advance of the Mexicans to the fort, showed the 
eagerness of the well-contested race among the commands, to be 
the first to arrive at the fort. The brave Capt. R. A. Gillespie, of the 
Rangers, was the first to gain and mount the enemy's works ; then 
followed the 5th Infantry, with Serjeant Updegrass, who bore the 
colours of that regiment into the fort, at the very heels of the enemy, 
and planted the standard on its breastworks. Almost at the same 
time, arose the colours of the gallant 7th, and the flag of our foe 
was hauled down mid the triumphant shouts and cheers of the vic- 
tors, which vibrated through the very heart of the city. Lieut. Thos. 
G. Pitcher, of the 5th Infantry, was one of the gallant spirits who 
was first in at the fort, and turning around to some Texians as 
they approached a nine-pounder, which had been captured, said, 
" Well, boys, we liked to have beaten you," and pulhng out a 
piece of chalk, wrote on the gun, " Texas Rangers, and bth In- 
fantry,''^ This piece, which the enemy in their flight had left 
loaded and primed, with the gun captured at Fort Federaciony 



ACCIDENTS AND INCIDENTS. 165 

was immediately turned upon the Bishop's Palace, situated on the 
southern slope of Loma Independencia, a valley of only 600 yards 
intervening. Several tents, mules, and a large quantity of ammu- 
nition were also captured. The storming of this height lasted 
about one hour and thirty minutes, and the force of the enemy 
was computed about 1500. Their loss was very severe; while 
on our part, but some eighteen were wounded, two of which proved 
mortal. When the advantageous positions which the enemy oc- 
cupied, and the difficulties which had to be surmounted on our 
part, are taken into consideration, this small loss seems almost in- 
credible. 

While storming Fort Soldada, Serjeant-major Brand, of the 5th 
Infantry, received a severe wound in the jaw, by a canister-shot, 
and fell by the side of Adjutant Deas, who was also knocked 
down by the concussion ; under a galhng fire of grape and canis- 
ter, he carried the wounded soldier to a place of security, and 
then, with the proud feelings of his noble daring, rushed on to 
the taking of the battery. The gallant little band of Louisianians, 
under Capt. A. G. Blanchard, fought side by side with the Texi- 
ans, and were among the first that reached the forts. Lieuts. Ten- 
brinck, and the two Nicholls, brothers, of this company, greatly 
distinguished themselves in the affair. Among the wounded were 
Lieut. Rossell, of the 5th, and Lieut. Potter, of the 7th Infantry ; 
John P. Waters, C. E. De Witt, Oliver Jenkins, and Thomas Law, 
privates of McCulloch's company, were also wounded, Avhile 
bravely rushing on to the attack, the two former badly. On the 
commands all meeting, there was a general congratulation and 
shaking of hands among friends, while the safety of others were 
eagerly inquired after. It was indeed a most animated scene. 
Men flushed with victory, and begrimed with powder, stood hold- 
ing with a firm grasp the hands of their companions in arms, 
while relating some little incident or adventure of the fight, and 
then a loud peal of laughter would burst forth from the different 
groups, at some ludicrous description of the runaway Mexicans. 
During this scene, the guns from the Palace belched forth its fire 
of grape, which was but little heeded ; and as the shot whizzed 
over our heads, it seemed only to add to our merriment, while the 
captured guns were made to answer, in return, the compliment. 

It was indeed a wild scene, and to add to its wildness and no- 
velty, the surrounding mountains loomed up on either side, with 
their rugged peaks piercing the very clouds — to the left were 
seen the battlements of the Bishop's Palace, with the banner of 
Mexico, half concealed by the smoke of its cannon ; below coursed 
the ninrmuring and rapid San Juan, with green fields on either 
side ; far to the east lay the city of Monterey, enveloped in smoke, 



166 GENERALSHIP OF WORTH. 

with its towering steeples overlooking that once peaceful valley, 
but which was now made to quake with the thunder of artillery, 
which told of the bloody conflict that was progressing on that side 
of the town. 

It was now about half-past 3 o'clock, p. m., and different parties 
were looking after the wounded which lay along the brow of the 
hill, and on the slopes. Many of the poor fellows were suffering 
greatly, and asking for water. It was a touching sight to see 
friends bending over the wounded, while they applied their can- 
teens to parched and fevered hps. They were all brought down 
and safely conveyed to the hospitals in camp, where they received 
every attention from the surgeons of the army. Capt. Smith's 
command, with the oth and 7th Infantry, was left to keep posses- 
sion of the height, while the Texians were ordered down to at- 
tend to their horses. As we recrossed the river, and passed 
through the fields of sugar and corn, the ground was strewn here 
and there with blankets, muskets, pistols, &c., which the men had 
thrown away in their pursuit, finding them too great an incum- 
brance in crossing the river. 

As soon as the height was carried, Gen. Worth sent off" a cou- 
rier with the news to Gen. Taylor, having previously despatched 
a messenger with the result of the engagement with the enemy, 
which took place in the morning. The generalship exhibited by 
Worth in the plan of attack upon the height, is deserving of the 
highest praise. It was felt by all to have been a most daring and 
perilous assault, and on it depended, in a measure, the future 
success of the division ; for had we been repulsed with loss, 
without carrying the height, it would not only have damped the 
ardour of the men, but greatly periled our position. As the gene- 
ral stood watching with his glass the enemy, with all the excite- 
ment and intense feehng of anxiety for the command of Captain 
Smith, his cool judgment dictated the course to pursue ; and he 
sent forward reinforcement after reinforcement to support the 
storming party, and to save their retreat, should they have been 
forced to fall back, while at the same time this prudent course 
enabled the whole force not only to sustain a decisive action, but 
to save the loss of life, as well as to gain the victory. 

The day was fast fading, and dark clouds lowered threateningly 
upon the mountains and over the valley. As night spread her 
dark veil over the besieged city and the invading army, the storm 
burst with all its violence, and the rain fell in torrents. The din 
of battle between the two armies ceased, and the valley of Monte- 
rey sank once more to repose ; and, save the occasional lightning's 
flash, and the roaring of the thunder of heaven, which, as it were, 
re-enacted the scene of the deadly conflict of the day, all became 



HOSPITALITY OF A MEXICAN WOMAN. 167 

hushed. The division had now been thirty-six hours without 
food, and although they had undergone the severest fatigue, the 
troops passed the night exposed to the storm, without sheher or 
cover. Those who were not on duty, lay down with their arms 
in their hands, and soon fell asleep, forgetting both fatigue and 
hunger. The troops on Federation Hill fared the same, only, if 
possible, their situation was more dreary. The Texians encamped 
in the yard of some jacaleSi on the Saltillo road leading to the city, 
near where the morning conflict took place. We had to walk 
some two or three hundred yards to a field, to procure corn for our 
horses, after grooming and feeding which, the men lay down as 
best they could, to catch an hour of sleep. In one of the jacales 
lived a Mexican, with his wife and two children. During the 
heavy rain some of the men sought shelter under the eaves of the 
house, when the Mexican woman came out and asked them in, at 
the same time offering to share with them the frugal supper 
which had been prepared for her little family. The invitation 
was readily accepted ; and although it was but a mouthful of meat 
and bread that was offered them, yet it was received with the 
warmest gratitude and most sincere thanks. The Mexican wo- 
man gazed with feelings of emotion at the men as they swallowed 
the morsel, and then, in one of the most sweet and silvery tones 
we ever listened to — such as only a woman can utter — expressed 
her sorrow that she had not more to give. She was about twenty 
years of age, a little above the medium height, with a slender 
form, yet beautifully rounded, which her low, short-sleeve dress 
set off very prettily, and was the most intelHgent woman that we 
had yet met with in Mexico. Her features were Grecian, with a 
clear olive complexion and transparent skin, through which man- 
tled the crimson blood, giving her cheeks a rich and beautiful 
colour. She had soft, lustrous black eyes, which danced with 
animation when she spoke, lighting up her beautiful face, while 
her glossy black hair fell in ringlets doAvn her neck ; and when 
she smiled, she displayed a set of teeth unrivalled for whiteness 
and beauty. Her voice, too, as we have said, soft and lisping, 
made the language she spoke more captivating than we had ever 
heard it. There was a douceur of manner about her that gained 
the esteem of all the Texians ; and whether it was that her gene- 
rosity made us think her an angel, or not, one thing is certain, we 
shall never forget her kindness. 

Although, with the closing of the day, two victories had 
crowned our arms, and we had gained a foothold in the enemy's 
rear, yet the main work was yet to be done, as the battery on 
Independence Hill and the Bishop's Palace commanded the main 
avenue to the city, the possession of which became of primary im- 



168 OPERATIONS OF THE FIRST AND THIRD DIVISIONS. 

portance to our future success. Ere night had closed the scene, 
Gen. Worth had planned the attack, and orders were issued for 
the Texians to be in readiness to march by 3 o'clock the next 
morning. As the men lay down, they were conscious of the short 
time that was given for repose, and knew that yet another bloody 
fight and more difficult and hazardous enterprise awaited them on 
the early morrow. 

Before we wake the slumbering soldiers of the Second Division, 
or before we relate the occurrences of the following day, we must 
ask those who have so kindly followed us thus far in our narrative, 
to accompany us back to the camp of Gen. Taylor, in order to give 
to our readers the proceedings of the First and Third Divisions on 
the memorable day of the 21st of September. 



CHAPTER XVII. 

Operations of the 21st of September on the Eastern side of Monterey — Advance 
of the First and Third Divisions from Camp — The Reconnoissance of Major 
Mansfield — Col. Garland moves towards the City with 1st and 3d Infantry — 
The Attack— Desperate Conflict — The Repulse— Fall of Lear, Barbour, 
Field, Williams, and Irwin — Advance of Quitman's and Hamer's Brigades — 
The Baltimore Battalion — Death of Watson, R. H. Graham, Hoskins, and 
Woods— Lieut. Col. McClung's Charge— The Taking of Fort Teneria— 
Col. Davis advances to charge Fort El Diablo — The Ohio Regiment enters 
the Streets — Gallantry of the Troops — Gen. Butler wounded — Col. Gar- 
land advances to the Tete-de-Pont — His Position gallantly maintained — 
Fall of Morris and Hazlitt — Repulse of the Enemy's Cavalry by Bragg and 
Ridgely — Gen. Butler's Division returns to Camp — Gen Twiggs' Division 
occupies the Captured Forts — Gen. Taylor — The Night — Scene of the 
Battle-field. 

In describing the operations on the eastern side of Monterey, 
we cannot be expected to give to our readers as particular an ac- 
count of the details of the fight as those given on the western side, 
where we were an eye-witness. Having, however, ridden over 
the ground after the battle, we had the position of the First and 
Third Divisions, commanded by Gens. Twiggs and Butler, de- 
scribed to us, as well as the localities pointed out by officers who 
participated in the terrible three-days' battle of the storming of 
Monterey. Being then somewhat famihar with the ground, and 
aided by the different reports obtained from our friends, we shall 
try to give to the reader as full an account as possible. 

As we have seen in the last chapter. Gen. Taylor had antici- 
pated Gen. Worth's note which had been written on the night of 
the 20th, and on the same night had planted a howitzer and mor- 
tar battery, (see Map, letter O,) to play upon the town and citadel. 



POSITIONS OF OUR ARMY. 169 

On the morning of the 21st, the First and Third Divisions were 
again ordered out to sustain the diversion in favour of Gen. Worth, 
according to the plan of attack. At 7 o'clock, a. m., the camp at 
Walnut Grove was under arms, and preparations made for every 
emergency ; a camp-guard, consisting of one company from each 
regiment, being detailed to protect the rear, should the enemy 
show himself in that direction. The force that marched out con- 
sisted of about three thousand five hundred men. In battle array 
the martial columns moved forward ; the Texian Rangers of Col. 
Wood, and the dragoons, leading the van, followed by the batte- 
ries of artillery and the regiments of infantry. No music of a mar- 
tial lay timed the marching of the men ; no bugle blast rang over 
the vale to proclaim the advance of the troops ; and, save the 
clang of arms, the columns moved forward like the deep low swell 
of the mountain wave. It was a splendid sight ! The banners 
of the different regiments waved proudly on the breeze, while 
thousands of glistening bayonets played in the sunbeams, and re- 
flected back their dazzhng rays. Officers and men marched 
proudly forth in high spirits, and with swelling bosoms ; and many 
a noble soul who had marked out for himself the part of chivalric 
bravery, was destined to leave behind the fame of his gallant 
deeds so dearly won on the battle-field, as his only monument. 

The column halted at the mortar-battery, situated on an emi- 
nence in front of the city, about three-quarters of a mile distant ; 
while, as we have seen, the dragoons, under Brevet Lieut. Col. 
May, and Col. Wood's regiment of Texas Rangers, under Gen. 
Henderson, took position on the right to make an impression on 
the upper part of the city, as well as to support Worth, in case of 
necessity. Col. Garland was then ordered to proceed with the 3d 
Infantry, commanded by Maj. Lear, numbering about 240 men, 
and the 1st Infantry, commanded by Maj. Abercrombie, with the 
battalion of Washington and Baltimore, commanded by Lieut. 
Col. Watson, the former numbering 180, and the latter 229 men, 
composing the brigade under Lieut. Col. Wilson — making in all 
a force of 649 men, accompanied by Capt. Bragg's battery of 
light artillery, towards the eastern or lower part of the town, with 
orders to make a strong demonstration, and, if practicable, to carry 
some one of the enemy's advanced works at the point of the bay- 
onet, if it could be done without too heavy loss. Major Mans- 
field, of the engineers, accompanied this command to make a re- 
connoissance, and was charged with its direction, and to de- 
signate the points of attack ; assisted also by Capt. Williams and 
Lieut. Pope, of the topographical engineers, and Col. Kinney of 
Texas. 

To account for the small numbers of the regiments of regulars, 

15 



170 COL. 

we will state, that, after the battle of the Resaca, the regiments 
were reduced to six companies, which generally contained not 
over fifty men. We will also remark, that, from the low and con- 
cealed position of the forts and redoubts at the lower end of the 
city, they could not well be seen, and it was impossible to approach 
close enough to make a reconnoissance without drawing forth a 
murderous fire from the Citadel fort. The object of General Tay- 
lor, by the manoeuvre ordered to be executed by Col. Garland, 
was to draw the attention of the enemy from Gen. Worth — at the 
same time to carry any of the outer works, if it could be done 
without too great a sacrifice, and without bringing on a general 
engagement with the enemy. 

The mortar, which was served by Capt. Ramsay of the ord- 
nance, and the howitzer battery, under Capt. Webster of the 1st 
Artillery, had now opened their fire upon the Citadel, and drew 
forth a steady response from that work. The command of Col. 
Garland moved off to a safe position towards the lower end of the 
city, (see route on the Map,) when Maj. Mansfield despatched 
Lieutenant Pope for two companies to support him in making a 
reconnoissance. Col. Garland ordered the advance company, 
commanded by Lieutenant Hazlitt, and the company of Capt. 
Field, both of the 3d Infantry, to be detached for that purpose. 
The detachment had proceeded about a quarter of a mile, when 
the enemy opened their fire from the battery of four guns, in the 
redoubt No. 1, (see Map.) At the same time, a large body of 
Mexican lancers showed themselves, and a fire of musketry was 
immediately opened on both sides. Col. Garland was now ordered 
to advance with his whole command in line of battle, to support 
the detachment. On rushed the men in double-quick time, en- 
countering a deadly fire of artillery from the redoubt, as well as 
an enfilading fire from the Citadel. Lieut. R. Dilworth, of the 
1st Infantry, here fell mortally wounded by a 12-pounder. Pass- 
ing the redoubt by a flank movement 200 yards to the right, they 
soon came within range of the enemy's musketry, and entered the 
narrow lanes of the suburbs, in the rear of the first redoubt, 
about 200 yards distant. Capt. Bragg's battery having been 
sent for, the gallant captain came down at a full gallop, exposed 
for nearly half a mile to the fire of the heavy guns of the Cita- 
del, and soon brought his battery into action in one of the narrow 
lanes on the outskirts of the city, directing his fire towards the 
barricades, but with Httle effect. The command now sustained a 
most terrible and appalling fire. Winged messengers of death 
flew in all directions, and our ranks thinned on every side. Peal 
after peal of the enemy's artillery from the Citadel and from the 
batteries Nos. 1, 2, 3, sent forth their deadly missiles of round- 



MA J. PHILIP N. BARBOUR. 171 

shot, grape, and canister, while a heavy fire of musketry from 
the houses and covers was kept up without cessation. Capt. 
Bragg's battery, doing but Httle execution, was ordered to move 
to a place of greater security. The infantry, however, pressed 
forward amid this storm of destruction, and, although officers and 
men were falHng beside them, they fought on with the most de- 
termined perseverance, when, being repulsed on all sides, they 
were ordered by Maj. Mansfield, who was wounded, to retire to 
another position, which they did in good order. In this despe- 
rate conflict, the 3d regiment lost nearly all its officers. Its com- 
mander, Maj. W. W. Lear, fell mortally wounded at the head of 
his regiment, and the brave and gallant Maj. Barbour, with Capt. 
G. P. Field, and Lieut. D. S. Irwin, the adjutant, were killed. 
Lieut. J. C. Terrett, of the 1st Infantry, and the accomphshed 
Capt. WiUiams of the topographical engineers, were also mor- 
tally wounded. 

We cannot pass on without stopping a moment to add our tri- 
bute to the memories of the lamented Barbour and Wilhams, who 
were our personal friends. 

" PhiHp Nourbone Barbour was born in Henderson, in the state 
of Kentucky, on the 14th of April, 1813. His grandfather. Gen, 
Samuel Hopkins, was a regular officer in the revolutionary war ; 
and his father. Col. Philip Barbour, commanded a regiment of 
volunteers, under Gov. Shelby, at the battle of the Thames. He 
graduated at West Point in June, 1834, and, from the autumn 
of that year until the day of his death, was engaged in constant 
and dangerous service. He was brevetted a captain for very gal- 
lant services in Florida, on the 15th of April, 1842 ; and a major 
from the 9th of May last, for gallant conduct in the battle of Re- 
saca de la Palma. In the latter battle, while in the command of 
only a few men, he repulsed two successive charges of a con- 
siderable body of Mexican lancers, who were attempting to reco- 
ver a piece of artillery which had been captured by a portion of 
the 4th Infantry. The daring and heroic gallantry displayed by 
him at that critical moment, the signal rout of the Mexicans at 
that point, and his hot pursuit of them, in the opinion of his 
fellow-officers, largely contributed to the brilhant success of our 
arms." He fell in the streets of Monterey while leading his 
company on to battle, in the very thickest of' the fight, fearlessly 
breasting the terrible fire of the masked batteries, which lost to 
his regiment its commander and adjutant, and four out of six of 
the officers commanding companies ! When the army was en- 
camped near Marin, he kindly lent us his portfolio to write our 
then last letter home ; having finished it as he came into the tent, 
we gave him our letter to seal for us, and at the same time offered 



172 CAPT. WILLIAM G. WILLIAMS. 

him some muscal from our canteen. Procuring a couple of tin 
cups, he said, with a sad smile, " Well, Reid, as it may be our 
last drink, I won't refuse you." We never saw him afterwards. 

Capt. Wilham G. WiUiams was born in South Carolina, and 
was a graduate of the Military Academy. He entered the ser- 
vice in July, 1824, and was a second lieutenant in the 7th Infantry, 
and afterwards entered the topographical engineers ; he was 
brevetted in January, 1834, and was made a captain in that corps 
in July, 1838. Capt. WilHams was one of the most talented and 
scientific officers in the army. He had travelled for some years 
in Europe, where he made researches in his profession, and 
served his country with all the zeal and fervour of his patriotic 
soul. He accompanied us on several scouting expeditions, and 
was with us in the skirmish at Ramos, where he was foremost 
with our men, fearlessly exposing himself on all occasions, and 
seemingly courting death. Capt. WiUiams fell mortally wounded 
in the streets of Monterey, and was dragged into the doorway of 
a house, by Lieut. John Pope, amid a shower of balls that covered 
him with dust. This gallant act of Lieut. Pope is worthy of the 
highest admiration. Capt. W. died the next day, and, having 
fallen into the hands of the Mexicans, was buried by them with 
the honours of war. 

Capt. Bragg, in withdrawing his battery from the narrow posi- 
tion he occupied in the lane, was obliged to unlimber the gun- 
carriages and reverse them. Four of his horses were killed, and 
seven wounded. These had to be replaced ; and, in retiring, he 
was again exposed to the same deadly cross-fire. In this move- 
ment, he lost two men killed and four wounded. Maj. J. J. 
Abercrombie, commanding the 1st Infantry, having passed two 
of the enemy's advanced works, succeeded in gaining possession 
of some houses on the left, when he was wounded, and fell from 
his horse by the side of Col. Garland. Capt. J. H. Lamotte, 
also of the 1st, received two wounds while gallantly leading his 
company, and was obhged to retire. Capt. A. S. Miller, who 
had been warmly engaged driving the enemy from the hedges 
and stone fences, near the advanced work, now took command of 
the remnants of companies C, E, G, and K, of the 1st Infantry, in 
conjunction with Lieut. S. Hamilton, acting adjutant of that regi- 
ment, in place of Lieut. J. C. Terrett, who was wounded. 

No sooner was it discovered, by the deafening discharge of the 
enemy's artillery and musketry, that Garland's command had en- 
gaged in bloody conflict, than Gen. Taylor immediately ordered 
three regiments of Gen. Butler's division, (which had taken up its 
position in the rear of the mortar battery,) consisting of the Ohio, 
under Col. Mitchell, a part of Gen. Hamer's brigade, the Tennes- 



ADVANCE OF THE BALTIMORE BATTALION. 173 

gee, Col. Campbell, and the Mississippi, under Col. Davis ; the 
two latter, composing Brig. Gen. J. A. Q,uitman's brigade, with 
the 4th Infantry, commanded by Brevet Major G. W. Allen, 
(two companies of which, not receiving the order, did not join the 
advance until sometime afterwards,) to march by a flank move- 
ment to the left, in the direction of Battery, No. 1. The 1st Ken- 
tucky regiment, under Col. Ormsby, was left to co^^er the mortar 
and howitzer battery, as well as to keep in check the enemy's 
cavalry — in which service it was employed throughout the day. 

We have endeavoured, by a critical research, to give the order 
of the several movements made by the divisions of Gens. Twiggs 
and Butler, in the storming of the lower part of the city, but find 
the task beyond our power, in consequence of the commands being 
separated, and many corps acting, at times, separately and con- 
jointly. We have also been deprived of Gen. Quitman's report 
of the battle of the 21st, which, for some reason, was not publish- 
ed, as well as many others — thus rendering the thing impossible. 
Whole companies were cut to pieces, while others were left with- 
out officers, and joined other commands. 

We must go back for a moment, when the gallant and wounded 
Mansfield ordered Col. Garland's command to retire, in order to 
connect the chain of incidents ; for which purpose, we give the 
reader the following account of proceedings prior to that time, by 
an officer of the Washington and Baltimore battalion, from which 
we make the following extracts : — 

" Our battalion was immediately formed in line of battle under 
this fire, and we were ordered to charge. * * * * Judge 
of my astonishment, when I beheld the four companies of regu- 
lars marching by a flank to the right. I saw Col. Watson shout- 
ing, but as to hearing a command, that was an impossibility, 
owing to the deafening roar of the cannon and musketry. I saw the 
head of our line changing its direction, and I knew at once that 
the point of attack was changed, and ran to the head of my com- 
pany to intercept the head of the column. I reached it just as 
Col. Watson was dismounting from his horse, which the next 
moment fell from a shot. The colonel cried out to the men, 
» Shelter yourselves, men, the best way you can.' At this time, 
the battalion was scattered over a space of about an acre, and the 
men were lying down, the shot in most instances flying over our 
heads ; but the guns were soon depressed, and the shot began to 
take effect." 

" I was lying close to Col. Watson, alongside of a hedge, when 
he jumped up and cried out, * Now's the time, boys, follow me.' 
We were now in a street or lane, with a few houses on either side, 
and within a hundred yards of three batteries which completely 

15* 



174 THE TERRIBLE ONSLAUGHT. 

raked it, in addition to which, two twelve-pound guns were planted 
in the castle on the right, and completely enfiladed the whole dis- 
tance we had to make. Add to this, the thousand musketeers on 
the house-tops, and in the barricades at the head of the street up 
which we advanced, and at every cross street, and you may form 
some idea of the deluge of balls poured upon us. (Bear in mind 
that the four companies of regulars were now with us, the one inter- 
mingled with the other.) Onward we went, men and horses fall- 
ing at every step* Cheers, shrieks, groans and words of command 
added to the din, whilst the roar of the guns was absolutely deafening. 

" We had advanced up the street under this awful and fatal 
fire, nearly two hundred yards, when we reached a cross street, 
at the corner of which all who had succeeded in getting this far 
alive, halted, as if by mutual consent. I was shaking Co], Wat- 
son by the hand, while he was complimenting me, when a shower 
of grape, round and canister shot came from the corner above, and 
jive, officers fell, and I do not know how many privates. Each 
man sought some place of apparent shelter. 

" I sat down on the ground, with my back to the wall of a 
house. On my left were two men torn nearly to pieces. One of 
them was lying fiat on his back, with his legs extending farther 
in the street than mine. Crash came another shower of grape, 
which tore one of his wounded legs off. He reared up, shrieked, 
and fell back a corpse. 1 never moved, for I was satisfied that 
one place was as safe as another. Directly opposite to me was 
my Brevet 2d Lieut. Aisquith ; on the right hand corner was 
Lieut. Bowie, also of my company ; and close to me sat Col. 
Watson, and Adjt. Schseler. In a few minutes, I saw our colour- 
serjeant, old Hart, come past with his right arm shattered, (it has 
since been amputated,) and in a few minutes, there came our bat- 
talion flag, borne by one of the colour-guards, our glorious stars 
and stripes ; and, note this, that it was the first American flag in 
the city of Monterey — an honour which we know belongs to our 
battalion." * * * * 

" No man there ever thought for a moment that he would get 
out alive, and most of them did not. The firing still continued 
without the slightest intermission, whilst we remained at this me- 
morable corner, which was perhaps for fifteen minutes. When 
we were ordered to charge up the street, a slight hesitation was 
manifested by both regulars and volunteers, but the officers sprang 
to the front in double file." 

" We advanced, I suppose, about fifty yards, when Col. Gar- 
land, of the army, ordered us to retire. We still advanced, and 
he again ordered us to retire, adding this time, in good order, I 
now became separated from Col. Watson, and never saw him 



I 



DEATH OF COL. WATSON. 175 

again. He took the left-hand side of the. street, and I the right 
hand, and when I reached the open field where he had first or- 
dered us to lie down, I was joined by Lieut. Aisquith, who, to my 
inquiry, answered that he had just left the colonel, and supposed 
that he would soon be with us. Seeing no other officer around 
me, I rallied the battalion, and led them down to make another 
attack upon the fort. * * * * 

" As well as I can learn, the colonel, in retiring from the city, 
inclined a good deal to the left, and became separated from the 
main body of the battalion ; that, in company with Lieut. Bowie, ^ 
who remained with him, he met another column advancing to the 
attack, joined them with the few men he had with him, and fell a 
few moments afterwards. He met with a gallant soldier's death, 
his face to the foe. His loss is deplored by all who knew his ge- 
nerosity of heart, and chivalry of character." 

The lamented Col. Watson was shot through the neck, while 
gallantly leading on his men, about seventy yards from the Re- 
doubt, No. L 

It was during this critical moment, when the command of the 
intrepid Garland was being swept by the enemy's artillery, and 
fighting on without hope, that the brigade of the brave Lieut. Col, 
Wilson suffered most. Twice had the order been given them to 
retire, but on they pressed, now wrapped in smoke, and concealed 
from view ; and again as it would lift, would be seen the fell 
havoc that was made in their ranks. During this time, Capt. E. 
Backus, of the 1st Infantry, with his company, had pushed ahead 
and gained a stone building, (a tannery,) the top of which looked 
directly into the gorge of battery. No. 1, at a distance of about 200 
yards. He immediately ordered his men to take position, and 
poured a most destructive fire into the redoubt, and the strongly 
fortified building (a sugar-house) in its rear, which contributed 
greatly to the surrender of the fort. 

In the mean time, the three regiments of volunteers, command- 
ed by Maj. Gen. Butler, were advancing to Garland's support. 
The Mississippi and Tennessee regiments, under Brig. Gen. Q,uit- 
man, marched to the left in direction of battery. No. 1, called Fort 
Teneria, while Gen. Butler, with the 1st Ohio regiment, a part 
of Gen. Hamer's brigade, of Ridgely's battery, accompanied by 
three companies of the 4th Infantry, and a section, entered the 
town to the right. 

The battle now became furious — the incessant roar of cannon, 
and the ratthng of musketry, told how desperate was the conflict. 
The cross-fire was indeed terrible. On marched Quitman's bri- 
gade, led by four companies of the 4th Infantry, about 400 yards 
in the advance, breasting the dreadful storm, which made them 



176 TAKING OF FORT TENERIA. 

Stagger, and at once struck down one-third of the officers and men, 
rendering it necessary for the remainder to retire, and effect 
a junction with the two other companies then advancing. Lieut. 
Hoskins, the adjutant, and Lieut. J. S. Woods, of the 2d, but 
serving with the 4th, were killed ; and Lieut. R. H. Graham 
fell mortally wounded. Thus the 3d and 4th both lost their 
adjutants, who were two of the most noble and accomplished offi- 
cers in the army. The Mississippians and Tennesseans stea- 
dily advanced, braving the galKng fire of copper grape, which 
swept through their ranks, until the centre of the Mississippi rifio 
regiment rested about 300 yards in front of the fort, with the 
Tennessee regiment formed on the left. It was the crisis, and 
the storm of battle was now at its height. The order was given 
to " advance and fire.'''' For thirty minutes their fire was kept 
up, while the men continued to push forward. The long lines 
moved until within about 100 yards of the fort, when they became 
lost in the volume of smoke that enveloped them. The Mexicans 
had run up a new flag in exultation, and in defiance of the as- 
sault, which was now being made in front and rear, while the 
deafening fire of their artillery, and the rattling of musketry, 
seemed more deadly than ever. The brave and chivalric Lieut. 
Col. McClung then ordered a charge ; and calling on the " Tom- 
bigbee volunteers," a company he formerly commanded, and the 
" Vicksburg Southrons," of Capt. Willis, to follow him, he rushed 
forward to the attack. Col. Davis also gave the order to charge 
nearly at the same time, or shortly after, anticipating Gen. Quit- 
man, w^ho was just on the point himself of issuing the same order. 
With desperation the lines came down upon the fort, and the 
escalade was made with the fury of a tempest. Burning for re- 
venge, the men faced the terrific fire, and marched up to the very 
mouths of the enemy's cannon, while their daring recklessness 
made the Mexicans quail, and fall back terror-stricken from their 
guns. Forward sprang the gallant McClung and leaped the ditch ; 
with sword in hand, and brandishing it over his head, he mounted 
the ramparts and entered the fort, while the regiment rushed 
after him, cheered on by the gallant Col. Davis, and followed by 
the brave Tennesseans of the noble Campbell. Lieut. W. H. 
Patterson, of Capt. Rogers's " Tombigbee volunteers," was the 
second man in the fort, to whom a Mexican officer surrendered 
and gave up his sword, and but an instant passed before the un- 
daunted Capt. D. H. Cooper with his high-souled corps of " Wil- 
kinson county volunteers," and the whole brigade, had entered, 
when a yell and shout of triumph rose above the din of battle, and 
a wild hurra rang over the scene of strife, which sent forth the 
" harbinger of victory." 




;i,|:;i:;:;,i;: iM ; :jii!ii:ii';ilijilliii,iilg i^^ 



GALLANTRY OF THE VOLUNTEERS. 11% 

The Mexicans fled in dismay, and ran to the strong fortified 
building, called the distillery, about seventy-five yards in the rear, 
whence they opened a heavy fire of musketry. Without paus- 
ing, the heroic McClung, followed by the brigade, rushed on in 
pursuit, charged and entered the work, which immediately sur- 
rendered. While a Mexican officer was praying for quarters, and 
caUing out to McClung that he had surrendered, the gallant colo- 
nel received two severe wounds, being shot through the hand and 
body, and was caught by Lieut. W. P. Townsend, of the Missis- 
sippi regiment, who supported him from falhng. As the men 
rushed in, they beheld McClung and the Mexican officer, and 
thinking that the latter had shot him, the Mexican was immedi- 
ately slain.* On the arrival of Col. Davis, who reached the dis- 
tillery at the same time with McClung, by another entrance, he 
received the sword of another Mexican officer, who surrendered 
his command to him. Five pieces of artillery, a considerable quan- 
tity of ammunition, and thirty prisoners, iiTcluding three officers, 
here fell into our hands ; the prisoners were placed in charge of 
Lieut. Armstrong. The brigade did not halt here, but moving 
on with rapidity, led by Col. Davis, they prepared to charge the 
second fort, called El Diablo, about 300 yards in the rear of the 
last work, when Gen. Gluitman ordered them to fall back, and they 
retired. 

Thus, after a most desperate and bloody conflict, of more than 
two hours, was one of the enemy's strong works carried by storm, 
notwithstanding the obstinate resistance they maintained. Con- 
sidering that it was the first time that the troops of Gen. Butler's 
division were ever brought into action — sustaining, as they did, a 
desperate struggle against a sheltered and inaccessible foe — unpro- 
tected and bared to the storm of the murderous artillery of the 
enemy, which, although it swept one-fifth of their number from 
the ranks, caused them not to shrink for an instant from a steady 
advance, proves to the world the undaunted gallantry of our 
citizen soldiers, who have won for themselves the reputation of 
veteran troops — the charge led by the Mississippi rifle regiment 
upon Fort Teneria, without bayonets, has gained for the state a 
triumph which stands unparalleled. 

It was now about 10 o'clock, a. m., and the most brilliant achieve- 
ment of the day being over, the battalion, under shelter of the fort 

* Colonel McClung was not in the act of receiving the sword from the Mexi- 
can officer, when he was shot, as has been stated, nor was it certainly known 
who shot him at the time. His wounds at first were feared to be mortal ; he 
remained in the hospital at Monterey, until after the battle of Buena Vista, a 
period of over five months, when he was enabled to leave for his home, and 
has since fully recovered, to the great gratification of his many friends. 



178 THE TENNESSEE AND OHIO REGIMENTS. 

and distillery, kept a continued fire until evening. The victory 
had heen dearly won, and many a brave soul fled on high, amid." 
the scene of bloody conflict. Besides Col. McClung, Capt. N. R. 
Downing, of the Raymond Fencibles, and Lieuts. H. F. Cook, 
R. K. Arthur, and the gallant L. T. Howard, were wounded. 
The whole number killed was fourteen, and forty-seven wounded. 
The brave Tennesseeans suffered more than any other regiment, 
and fought with all the reputed chivalry of that gallant state. 
Among their killed were Capt. W. B. Allen and Lieut. S. M. 
Putnam. Maj. R. B. Alexander, and Lieuts. G. H. Nixon, J. L. 
Scudder, and J. C. Allen, were wounded. The loss of the regi- 
ment was 26 killed, and 75 wounded. 

Maj. Gen. Butler, with the Ohio Regiment under Col. Mitchell, 
had, in the mean while, entered the border of the town, but find- 
ing a sweeping fire opposed his farther progress, reported the 
fact to Gen. Taylor, who was but a short distance in the rear, 
when a retrograde movement w^as directed. Hardly, however, 
had the order been given, before it was known that the intrepid 
and heroic volunteers of Gen. Quitman's brigade had carried Fort 
Teneria, when the order was immediately countermanded, and the 
Ohio troops of Gen. Hamer's brigade ordered to enter the town at 
a point farther to the left, for the purpose of ascertaining the pos- 
sibility of carrying the second fort, called El Diablo. The regi- 
ment advanced under a most destructive fire, and after half an 
hour's march arrived within about one hundred yards of the 
second fort. The converging fires from the different batteries 
now swept through their ranks, with a heavy fire of musketry 
flanking the approach, which poured forth a storm of leaden rain, 
covering the intervening space through which it was necessary to 
pass. Gen. Butler here received a severe wound in the leg, but 
notwithstanding, with the most determined bravery, he resolved 
to carry this strong work by storm, and was in the act of directing 
the advance, when, becoming faint with the loss of blood, he was 
obhged to leave the field in command of Brig. Gen. Hamer. 
Col. A. M. Mitchell, Capt. James George, Lieut. A. W. Arm- 
strong, Adjt., and Lieuts. N. H. Niles, H. McCarty, and Lewis 
Morter, were also wounded, and Lieut. M. Hett, killed. The 
men were falHng fast, yet still they kept up an unflinching and 
steady fire upon the enemy, when, finding the work to be much 
stronger than was at first supposed, and that it could not be car- 
ried without immense loss, Gen. Hamer, by advice of Gen. Butler, 
withdrew his troops to a less exposed position. The command of 
the regiment now devolved upon Lieut. Col. J. B. Weller. 

Soon after the taking of Fort Teneria, the gallant Ridgely 
came up with his battery and took position near it. The artillery 



DEATH OF MORRIS AND HAZLITT. 179 

captured from the enemy was immediately placed in battery, 
under the supervision of Gen. Twiggs, and served by Capt. 
Ridgely against Fort El Diablo, until the arrival of Capt. Web- 
ster's howitzer battery, which took its place. Capt. Bragg's 
battery, having been refitted, had also taken position near the 
captured fort. An incessant fire was kept up on this position from 
Fort El Diablo and other works on its right, and from the large 
guns in the Citadel on all our approaches. 

During the attack upon Fort El Diablo, Col. Garland's com- 
mand, which had been joined by the remnant of the 4th Infantry 
under Maj. W. M. Graham, was ordered again to advance and 
enter the town to the right, for the purpose of gaining the rear 
and carrying the fort in the reverse. Passing several barricaded 
streets, raked by the artillery and infantry of the enemy, the com- 
mand halted, while Capt. L. N. Morris, who had succeeded to the 
command of the 3d Infantry, followed by Maj. Graham with the 
4th Infantry, entered the back of a garden to the left and pressed 
forward, when, instead of gaining the rear of the fort, they came 
upon a tete-de-pont, one of the strongest defences of the city, and 
from the opposite side of the bridge two pieces of artillery were 
brought to bear upon them at a distance of a little over one hun- 
dred yards. Here fell the brave Capt. Morris, who was carried 
into a house by his noble friend, Lieut. R. Hazlitt, and who but 
a few moments after was also cut down. The command of the 
3d then fell to Capt. Bainbridge, who was shortly after wounded, 
and succeeded by Capt. Henry. After maintaining their position 
in the most gallant manner, against fearful odds, this Spartan band 
was forced to retire, which they did in good order. Capt. Geo. 
Mason Graham, of the Louisiana Volunteers, acted upon this 
occasion as aid-de-camp to Col. Garland, and served with great 
gallantry. 

While this column was absent, a body of about five hundred of 
the enemy's cavalry moved out under cover of the heavy guns of 
the citadel, with the intention of attacking the rear of our army, 
where many small parties were engaged in carrying ofT our killed 
and wounded. Before they had advanced far, they came upon 
the Ohio Volunteers, under Lieut. Col. Weller, and a part of the 
Mississippi regiment, whom they charged, but were repulsed 
with considerable loss. Shortly after they again showed them- 
selves, having been reinforced by an additional squadron, and 
were preparing for a second charge, when Gen. Taylor, observing 
the movement, ordered Capt. Bragg to repel them. Proceeding 
with his battery to a favourable position, supported by a mixed 
command under Capt. Miller of the 1st Infantry, without being 
discovered by the enemy, Capt. Bragg poured into them a fire as 



180 THE NIGHT — THE BATTLE-FIELD. 

unexpected as it was destructive, and which made them retreat 
r,apidly towards the city. A demonstration of the enemy's cavalry 
on the opposite side of the river, was also dispersed in the course 
of the afternoon by Capt. Ridgely's battery. Capt. George 
Shivers' company of Mississippi and Texas foot volunteers served 
with Bragg's battery the greater part of the day, and performed 
most admirable and distinguished service. 

Our repulse in the last attacks terminated the regular fighting 
for the day. The main object had been effected. A terrible and 
powerful diversion had been made to favour the operations of Gen. 
Worth's division, in order to carry out the masterly conception of 
taking the city in the reverse. The day was fast drawing to a 
close, and the volleys of musketry had ceased, but the enemy's 
cannon from the forts and Citadel still continued to keep up an 
incessant roar. The troops of Gen. Butler's division were now 
ordered back to camp, when they again became exposed to the 
enemy's artillery as it swept over the plain. The regular infantry 
of the First Division, and Capt. Ridgely's battery, with a battalion 
of the Kentucky regiment, commanded by Major Sheppard, and 
the company of Capt. Shivers, were detailed as a guard for the 
works during the night. Intrenching tools were procured, and 
additional strength was given to the works, and protection to the 
men, by working parties during the night, under the direction of 
Lieut. Scarritt, of the engineers. 

Throughout the day. Gen. Taylor had moved through that fear- 
ful and terrific storm as if he held a charmed fife. Here and 
there his person was seen as he sat upon his war-steed giving 
orders, or watching with intense and painful interest the fate of 
the storming parties. Heavy clouds lowered upon the mountain 
tops, and as night cast her veil over the besieged city and valley, 
the rain fell in torrents, as if weeping for the loss of the many 
brave spirits, while the winds whistling over the plain bemoaned 
the sad fate of the dying and the dead. 

"It was a horrible sight to one not accustomed 'to blood and 
carnage.' The dead lay in almost every possible position. Some 
of the wounded were screaming, in agony, as they were hauled 
off in wagons ; others lay on the ground, begging for water and 
assistance ; some hobbled along assisted by comrades ; and a few, 
as we passed, turned a mute but imploring glance, as if they de- 
sired help, and knew it would not be given. At the moment, it 
seemed to me feeling was dead — the regiment was marching 
rapidly to the fort, the enemy was blazing at it with their cannon, 
and in a few minutes all expected to be in the midst of a new con- 
flict. Men's nerves were strung to a high pitch, and no one knew 
but in an hour he might be laid out also. About five or six o'clock, 



THE SECOND DAY. 181 

a chilling rain commenced, and poured down in torrents ; during 
a part of the night, our encampment was almost covered with 
water; no tents had been prepared for the wounded, (some of 
whom were not found that night ;) they were crowded in with 
their comrades ; surgical operations and treatment were in pro- 
gress nearly, or quite all night, and altogether we had a fair spe- 
cimen of the 'horrore of war.' " 



CHAPTER XVIII. 

The Second Day — Description of Independence Hill — The Storming of the 
Height— The Fall of Gillespie and Thomas— The 7th Infantry— Capt. Miles' 
diversion — Sortie by the Enemy from the Bishop's Palace — The 5th In- 
fantry — Lieut. Roland's Howitzer — Capt. Vinton's Ruse — The Charge of the 
Enemy from the Bishop's Palace — Their Defeat — The Charge of our Troops 
— The Taking of the Palace — Duncan's Battery — Gen. Worth's Bulletins^ 
The Close of the Day — Capt. Walker — Incidents of his Life. 

At three o'clock, on the morning of the 22d of September, the 
troops that had been detailed to storm the fort on Independence 
Hill were aroused from their slumbers. It was dark and cloudy, 
with a heavy, thick mist. The command consisted of three com- 
panies of the artillery battalion, under Capt. J. R. Vinton, acting 
major, Lieut. Benjamin, adjutant, commanded by Capt. J. B. Scott, 
Lieuts. Bradford and G. W. Ayres ; three companies of the 8th 
Infantry, under Capt. R. B. Screven, commanded by Lieuts. 
James Longstreet, T. J. Montgomery, and E. B. Holloway ; and 
seven companies of the Texas Rangers, under Col. Hays and 
Lieut. Col. Walker, commanded by Capts. R. A. Gillespie, Benj. 
McCulloch, Thos. Green, C. B. Acklen, Jas. Gillespie, C. C. Her- 
bert, and Ballowe, the whole under the command of Lieut. Col. 
Thos. Childs, who had been assigned to lead this storming party, 
numbering in all 465 men, besides the officers. 

Independence Hill, between seven and eight hundred feet high, 
is not only the most inaccessible height from its almost perpen- 
dicular ascent — covered as it is with ledges of rock, some four or 
five feet high, and low, thick, thorny bushes — but also the most 
important, as commanding all the western approaches, and by a 
gradual descent from the crest of the hill, of about some three 
hundred and fifty or four hundred yards, south-east course, along 
the ridge, leading to the Bishop's Palace, which it also commands 
and overlooks ; thus forming a key to the entrance of Monterey 
on the western side. , The height was defended by a piece of 
artillery, and during the night a large reinforcement had been 

16 



182 STORMING OF INDEPENDENCE HILL. 

thrown forward from the Bishop's Palace. Here they remained, 
as they supposed, in perfect security, considering their position 
impregnable, and that any attempt to storm it would prove unsuc- 
cessful. The expedition was looked upon as a forlorn hope, but 
not a word was spoken, save by the officers in a low tone, as they 
marshalled their men in the darkness of the night. The solemn 
stillness that prevailed indicated the firm purpose and resolves 
that were passing in the minds of the men. At this moment, the 
short, quick word of command ''''forward'''' was given, and the 
column, conducted by Capt. John Sanders, mihtary, and Lieut. 
Geo. Meade, topographical engineers, with a Mexican guide, 
wound its way by a right flank along the dark and devious road, 
passing through a corn-field, until it arrived at the base of the hill. 
Here the command was divided. Capt. J. R. Vinton, with one 
company of the 3d Artillery, and one company of the 8th Infantry, 
and three companies of Rangers, under Lieut. Col. Walker, was 
detached, to move as a left column up the north-west slope of the 
hill, while Col. Childs, with the residue of the command, should 
ascend on the south-west. Now commenced the ascent, which at 
a distance had appeared sufficiently difficult, steep, and rugged, 
and when actually grappled with, required all the vigour and 
strength of the most hardy. Forward pressed the men, invigo- 
rated by the fresh morning air, until they arrived within a hun- 
dred yards of the crest of the hill, when a crash of musketry from 
the enemy's skirmishers announced that they were discovered. An 
incessant random fire was poured down upon the stormers, the 
day having yet hardly dawned, but not a shot was returned — not 
a word uttered. The two columns steadily advanced, chmbing 
over projecting crags by means of the fissures in the rocks, or 
clinging to the stunted, thorny bushes which had imbedded them- 
selves among them, until they were within about twenty yards of 
the top, when a shout and yell rose on the stilly air, amid the rat- 
thng of a volley of musketry from the regulars, and the whisthng 
of the rifle balls of the Texians, which appalled the enemy, and 
drove them back from the brow of the slope. Then came the 
deadly struggle. Panting and breathless, men and officers strove 
to gain the height, contending with the rocky steep as well as 
with the enemy — peal after peal, and shout and cry, rang wildly 
forth for victory — onward they rushed, braving the storm of hail 
until they gained the brow, and with a loud huzza bore back the 
foe, while the mist now left the mountain's top for the sunbeam's 
warmer glow, to shine upon the triumphant colour's of our victo- 
rious troops. 

The Mexicans fled in confusion ; some towards the Palace, while 
others ran headlong down the hill. They, however, succeeded in 



FALL OF GILLESPIE AND THOMAS. 183 

carrying off a piece of cannon, our men being too much exhausted 
to pursue them farther. The loss of the enemy was considerable, 
while on our part it was but few in numbers, though some of our 
noblest spirits fell. Among them was the brave and gallant Capt. 
R. A. Gillespie, an officer well known in Texas and to the army, 
for his kind and unassuming deportment in social life, and his 
sagacity, activity, and undaunted courage in the field. He fell, 
mortally wounded, at the head of his company, while in the act 
of mounting the enemy's works. As his men came up, they of- 
fered to assist him, but he refused them, and cheered them on to 
the combat. Here, too, the daring and chivalric Herman S. 
Thomas, of BaUimore, belonging to McCulloch's company, who 
was among the first to scale the height, received a mortal wound. 
Lieut. W. E. Reese, of Capt. Ballowe's company, was also wounded, 
with many others ; and Daniel McCarty, of the same company, 
was killed. 

During the preceding night, the 7th Infantry, which had been 
left to garrison Fort Soldada, on Federation Hill, where the eight 
pounder which we had captured was served by Lieut. Dana, in 
throwing round-shot into the Bishop's Palace, had received orders 
to make a demonstration at daylight, in favour of the storming 
party. For this purpose, Capt. Miles detached the right wing of 
the regiment, consisting of three companies, and at dawn of day 
was descending the hill towards the Palace ; when about half- 
way down, hearing the shout of attack from our troops on the 
height, he ordered his men to give three cheers, which first drew 
the attention of the enemy from the Palace on his column, and 
soon received in return a shower of grape from a howitzer. Shel- 
tering his men under a fence, without receiving any injury, Capt. 
Miles moved close enough to the Palace to attack in flank any re- 
inforcement that should be sent to support their forces on the 
height. The enemy was thus held in check, and no effort was 
made to sustain their troops, flying before our victorious soldiers. 
The height having been carried, Capt. Miles returned with his 
command to the fort. 

As soon as the height was stormed, three companies of the 8th 
Infantry, which had remained in camp, commanded by Capt. J. V. 
Bomford, Lieuts. A. L. Sheppard, and Joseph Selden, were sent 
forward under Col. Staniford, to reinforce the command. About 
the same time, Capt. J. B. Scott's company of the artillery bat- 
tahon, and company A, of the 8th, under Lieut. Longstreet, with 
a detachment of the Texas Rangers, were thrown forward, within 
musket range of the castle, to pick off such of the enemy as should 
give them a chance. Thirty minutes after this position was 
taken, their success caused the enemy to make a sortie with a 



184 LIEUT. Roland's howitzer. 

large force, with a view to retake the crest of the hill. This at- 
tempt was opposed by our advanced party with great spirit, — the 
effort being made on the part of the Mexicans with some deter- 
mination, but after a considerable loss, they were compelled to 
retire to the Palace. On our side, Lieut. Wainwright, of the 8th, 
was wounded, and one man of the same regiment killed. The 
command now sustained a severe fire from the artillery, and a 
continued fire of musketry from the loop-holed walls, and para- 
pets of the Palace. Col. Childs, wishing to save the farther effu- 
sion of blood, and to afford the garrison an opportunity to capitulate, 
displayed a white flag for this purpose ; but it being disregarded, 
other measures were resorted to. 

It was now about ten o'clock, a. m., when the 5th Infantry, 
under Major Martin Scott, and Blanchard's Louisiana Volunteers, 
were ordered to descend from their position on Federation Hill, 
where they had remained since the afternoon of the 21st, and 
cross to that of Independence. While crossing the river San 
Juan de Monterey, or the Arroya Topa, the regiment was opened 
upon with shot and shell from the Palace, doing no more injury, 
however, than causing Major Scott's horse to stumble, and spilling 
the major in the rapid stream. 

At the same time, Lieut. J. F. Roland, of Lieut. Col. Duncan's 
battery, was ordered from the main camp with a twelve-pound 
howitzer, assisted by the brave and energetic Capt. Sanders, of 
the engineers, (to select the route most practicable,) with fifty men 
of the line, under Lieut. D. H. McPhail, of the 5th Infantry — that 
gallant and enterprising officer succeeded, in less than two hours, 
in placing his gun in position, having ascended a steep and rugged 
acclivity of nearly seven hundred feet ! Lieut. Edward Deas, of 
the artillery, also assisted in this enterprise. A fire was imme- 
diately opened from the howitzer, upon the Palace and the outer 
works, about four hundred yards distant, with terrible effect. 
Half-way down the ridge, between the summit and the castle, was 
a position partially covered by rocks and bushes from the enemy's 
fire, at which point the advance had been posted. The advance 
was now increased to six companies, and Capt. Vinton was ordered 
to take charge of this position. For four or five hours, a fire was 
kept up by the skirmishers, without any material effect. Capt. 
Vinton now, by a ruse, sought to draw forth the enemy to sally 
upon our fine, when we might hope not only to repulse his charge, 
but to carry the Palace by a coup-de-main. Orders preparatory 
to such a movement, were then given by him to the troops. Capt. 
Blanchard's company of Louisiana volunteers was then ordered 
to take position on the left declivity of the hill, near Walker's 
Texians, with orders to fall back upon it whenever the signal 



185 

should be given. On the same left declivity, was stationed a 
company of 8th Infantry, under Captain Bomford, and one of the 
3d Artillery, under Lieut. Ayres. On the right-hand slope were 
two companies of the 5th Infantry, under Capts. Merrill and 
Chapman, and ofie of the 4th Artillery, under Lieut. Bradford, — 
all deployed as skirmishers. Capt. Vinton again issued his or- 
ders, that in the event of a sortie by the garrison, a signal would 
be given, when the companies on the right and left would close 
in at the top of the ridge, unite their flanks on this centre, and 
thus facing to the front, present to the enemy a strong firm line of 
bayonets, which it would not be easy for him to force. 

The critical moment was at hand. Large reinforcements of 
cavalry and infantry were seen ascending the road from the city 
to the Bishop's Palace, and every thing indicated that some strong 
movement was about to take place. Don Francisco Berra, gene- 
ral commanding, finding no other resource left, determined to save 
the Palace by making a desperate effort to drive us from the sum- 
mit. Orders were given for Blanchard's company to fall back on 
the alignment, while the Texas Rangers kept their covered posi- 
tion on each side of the slope of the mountain. This movement, 
apparently retrograde, was soon after followed by one from the 
enemy, which realized the very hopes that Capt. Vinton had so 
warmly cherished. Battalions of infantry formed in front of the 
Palace, their crowded ranks and glistening bayonets presenting a 
bold and fearless front, while squadrons of light-horsemen, with 
lances bright and fluttering flags, and heavy cavalry, with sco- 
pets* and broadswords gleaming in the sun, richly contrasting 
with the gaudy Mexican uniforms, made a most imposing sight. 
Th'eir bugle notes now echoed forth the charge. Onward they 
came, in proud array, prepared for desperate strife — nearer and 
nearer they approached, their troopers dashing up the slope with 
fierce and savage air, until the clang of their arms rang wildly on 
the ear — then, when within twenty yards of our position, the ap- 
pointed signal being given, out rushed our gallant troops and 
formed a serried Hne of bayonets which suddenly rose before the 
enemy, like an apparition, to oppose their progress. Most bravely 
were they met ; one volley from that long line, with a deadly fire 
from the Texians, made them reel and stagger back aghast, while 
above the battle-cry was heard the hoarse command to " charge." 
On, on, rushed our men, with shouts of triumph, driving the re- 
treating enemy, horse and foot, who fled in confusion down the 
ridge, past the Palace, and even to the bottom of the hill, into the 
streets of the city. The victory was won — the Palace ours ; and 



* Escopeta, Spanish for carbine. 
1(3* 



186 TAKING OF THE PALACE. 

long, long did the cheers of the victors swell on the air, which 
made the valley helow ring with the triumph of our arms. 

A short struggle ensued with those inside the Palace, but being 
soon overpowered, they surrendered. We here made some thirty 
prisoners, and captured four pieces of artillery, #hich were imme- 
diately turned and opened upon the enemy. An officer was also 
taken, who, it was said, was caught in the act of attempting to 
fire the magazine. Our loss in this encounter was some six killed 
and fifteen wounded, while, upon the part of the enemy, upon the 
hill and in the streets, some one hundred and eighty were killed 
and wounded. Our force amounted to nearly eight hundred 
troops ; that of the enemy which defended the Palace, and opposed 
us, was two thousand. Lieut. G. W. Ay res of the 3d Artillery 
was among the first to enter the castle, and hauled down the 
enemy's flag from the Palace, while Lieut. Col. Walker of the 
Texas Rangers, with one of McCulloch's men, cut down the blue 
and yellow signal flags from the cross in front of the works. 
Lieut. Roland immediately run his gun down to the Palace, and 
was soon under fire. Lieut. Col. Duncan's battery, which had 
been doing good execution below at the gorge, directed by Lieuts. 
Wm. Hays, and H. F. Clarke, during the operation of the how- 
itzer on the hill, now came up at a gallop to the slope below the 
Palace, where, in conjunction with Mackall's battery, an effective 
fire was opened on that part of the town below, driving the enemy 
from their strong intrenchments as far as their guns would reach, 
even past Arista's garden, to the Plaza la Capella, where stood 
the church and cemetery, [see Map, letters I and J,] sweep- 
ing down the retiring masses that filled the streets, with fear- 
ful slaughter. The whole command of Gen. Worth, with the 
baggage and ammunition train, now moved up to the Palace for 
the night, with the exception of the Texas Rangers, who occupied 
the ranchos, near the junction of the roads, where we quartered 
the night before, and the 5th Infantry, which re-crossed the river 
to support the 7th, on Federation Hill. It was now about four 
o'clock, p. M., and the remainder of the evening was employed in 
removing the wounded to the Bishop's Palace, that of the enemy 
as well as our own, to our honour be it said, being equally cared 
for. While on the contrary, there were many cases on Gen. 
Taylor's side w^here our wounded were inhumanly put to death 
by the Mexican lancers. Poor Gillespie and Thomas were 
removed to some jacales, near the quarters of the Texians, that 
they might receive the attention of their comrades. We sat up 
the greater part of the night with the latter, and left him with 
hopes of recovery. He had been our messmate, and a more kind, 
noble, and generous heart was never sacrificed for his country. 



THE CLOSE OF THE SECCmD DAY, 187 

They both died the next day, ainid were l>u?ied od Indepe'ttdeiice 
Hill, where they fell, with the mountaiii for their grave,, and the? 
Palace for their monument. 

"Thus," says our comrade, Mr, Kendall, in his accoiai't of the 
part taken by Gen. Worth's divimon, "thus, by a series of bril- 
liant, well-planned and successful moye-ments, in the rery face of 
obstacles which appeared almost instirm^oiintable. Gen, Worth 
found himself in full possession of three of the eniemy's> batteries, 
the stronghold known as the Bishop's Palace,, seven pieces- of 
artillery, and a large quantity of amimuinition and intrenching- 
tools, two of their standards, and what was^ of still greater import" 
ance, the entire occupation of the Saitillo road, and a complete 
command of all the western portion of the city of Monterey," 
And all this, too, had been accomplished b-y troops exposed to> 
heavy rains, without shelter, with little or no sleep, anci under-' 
going the most arduous labour, and severe fatigue, and the most 
of them without food for more than forty-eight hours. 

At eight o'clock in the morning, Gen. Worth had sent off a 
bulletin to Gen. Taylor, informing him of our success in stonnin^ 
Independence Hill. About twelve o'clock at noon a cavalry force 
was reported advancing from the Pescaria Grande road, when we 
were sent out by Gen. Worth to reconnoitre the party, which proved 
to be a detachment of dragoons and Wood's Texas Rangers bear" 
ing an express to Gen. Worth, from Gen. Taylor, informing him of 
the operations of the 21st, with the sad intdligence of his heavy loss 
of over three hundred and fifty men, killed and wounded. At eight 
o'clock, p. M.,Gen. Worth despatched another bulletin, announcing 
the affair of the Bishop's Palace ; and at the same time stating 
that in case the enemy should attempt to retreat in the night, he 
would make a signal by burning the jacales a mile in the rear, and 
by throwing up rockets. The night passed off', however, without 
the attempt, and save the occasional flight of rockets in different 
parts of the city by the Mexicans, which were alone understood 
by them, all remained quiet. 

During the evening, the band of the 8th Infantry was heard 
playing from the Bishop's Palace, while the men prepared their 
first supper since we left camp at Walnut Springs. The Texians 
were still without their camp utensils, and had to shift for them- 
selves ; the pretty Mexican woman, whom we have already de- 
scribed, however, made up some flour which we had obtained, 
into tortillas, but being worn out with fatigue, the men thought 
more of sleep than supper. The adventures of the day were 
talked over while eating their mouthful of food, when the men 
sank to rest. We shared a board, which we lay on to keep us 
■from the wet ground, with our heutenant-colonel, and having 



188 CAPTAIN WALKER. 

learned something of his history, we will'proceed to give it to the 
reader. 

Samuel H. Walker, now captain of United States mounted 
jifles, was born in 1817, in Prince George county, Maryland. In 
1836, at the age of nineteen, he enlisted in the Washington city 
volunteers for the Creek war, and after his term of service expired, 
he went to Florida, and served through the campaign of the war 
against the Indians. Waiker was afterwards employed for some 
time in the scouting service with the citizens at the town of lola, 
on the Appalachicola river. He then removed to Middle Florida, 
where he was employed for some time as superintendent of the 
railroad. 

In January, 1842, he emJgrated to Texas, and went out with 
General Johnson on the frontier. He there joined an expedition 
against the Indians, who had murdered a family near Clark 
Owen's camp, and carried off two children. The Indians were 
pursued, and a skirmish took place on San Antonio river, in which 
they were defeated, and the two children re-taken. In the spring 
of the same year, on Gen. Sam. Houston issuing his war procla- 
mation, he joined Capt. Billingsly's company of Rangers, at Bas- 
trop, and fought under Col. Caldwell, with Hays and Cameron, at 
the battle of Salado, with two hundred and ten men, who repulsed 
Gen. Woll, with thirteen hundred, at the time the Mexicans had 
retaken San Antonio, and captured the judges and lawyers, the 
court being then in session. It was at this time that Capt. Dor- 
son's company from La Grange had come up in the rear, and 
had been cut to pieces. BilHngsly was also in the rear with the 
Mexicans between him and Col. Caldwell's command,, when it 
became necessary to send a messenger to camp to inform Col. 
Caldwell of this fact. It was a hazardous undertaking, and at- 
tended with the greatest difficulties. As no one could be found to 
go, the gallant Walker volunteered, and set out in the darkness 
of the night and reached the camp in safety. He was then 
ordered to return and conduct the command in before day, as an 
attack was expected that morning, which he did, and was also 
successful. After the retreat of Gen. Woll, he joined Hays' 
company, and remained with him until the Summerville expedi- 
tion was organized against the Mexicans, at which time they took 
the towns of Loredo and Garrera. After Gen. Summerville's 
return he joined the celebrated expedition of Gens. Fisher and 
Greene, and was taken prisoner b}^ Gen. Ampudia at the battle 
of Mier. Walker afterwards made his escape from prison at 
Tacabayu, Santa Anna's residence, and after suffering unheard 
of hardships, arrived safe at Tampico. He then took passage for 
New Orleans, where he remained a month, when he again re- 




\C-^<i%^ 



Captain Walker, from a D iguerreotvpe by J. McGuire, 
New Orleans. — p. 188. 



OPERATIONS ON THE EAST SIDE OF THE CITY. 189 

turned to Texas and joined Hays' command, with whom he 
served until Gen. Taylor's army moved to the Rio Grande. 
Walker then went down to see Gen. Taylor, for the purpose of 
offering the services of the company of the lamented Gillespie, (to 
which he was attached as a private,) to serve in case a rupture 
should take place with the Mexicans, then daily expected, but 
which Gen. Taylor declined. About thirty of the old Rangers 
had followed the army from Corpus Christi, expecting to see a 
fight, and meeting with Capt. Walker, requested him to apply to 
Gen. Taylor for permission to organize a company. Walker 
frequently requested the general to let him do so, but he deeming 
it unnecessary at the time, refused. After the murder of Capt. 
Cross, however, and the death of Lieut. Porter, Gen. Taylor gave 
his consent, and Walker raised his brave band of Texas Rangers. 
His gallant and daring feats at the battles of Palo Alto and Resaca 
de la Palma are too well known to our readers to detail in this im- 
perfect sketch. 



CHAPTER XIX. 



Gen. Taylor's Forces on the East Side — The Morning of the 22d — Gen. Hen- 
derson, and Woods' Rangers — Twiggs's Division, relieved by Butler's— 
Abandonment of Fort El Diablo by the Mexicans — The Third Day — The 5th 
Infantry — Major Brown's Command — Reconnoissance by Lieut. Meade and 
Capt. McCuUoch — Gen. Worth enters the City with his Division — Arrival 
of Major Monroe with the Mortar — The Second Division reaches the Plaza 
de Carno— The Street Fight — The Bomb-shells at Night — Gen. Taylor's 
Camp — Operations of the First and Third Divisions on the 23d — Gen. Quit- 
man and Woods' Rangers enter the City — Bragg's Battery — A flag with a 
Letter from the Governor reaches Gen. Taylor — Position of the Army on 
the 23d. 

We must return for a moment to the eastern side of the city, 
to bring up the occurrences of Gen. Taylor's forces on the day of 
the 22d. No active operations took place in the lower part of the 
city on that day. The morning was principally occupied in bury- 
ing the dead, and in relieving our wounded. The citadel, and 
other works of the enemy, continued to fire at parties exposed to 
their range, and at the fort now occupied by our troops, which was 
returned by Capt. Ridgely's battery, and the captured guns. At 
an early hour, a scout came into camp, and reported that a body 
of Mexican lancers were on the plain, and appeared to be making 
their way towards the Guadaloupe village, on the Caderita road. 
Gen. Henderson, with the 2d regiment of Texas Rangers, com- 
manded by Col. Woods, immediately set out in pursuit, and after 
scouring the country around for five or six miles, returned without 
meeting with any hostile party. A body of Mexican lancers were 



190 THE THIRD DAY. 

seen drawn up under the guns of the Citadel, but could not be in- 
duced to come forth. 

At noon, the First Division, which had been left to garrison the 
fort the preceding night, was relieved by Gluitman's brigade of 
volunteers, Ridgely's battery remaining. Capt. Bragg's battery 
was thrown forward under cover, in front of the town, to repel any 
demonstration of cavalry in that quarter. These were the only 
movements made on Gen. Taylor's side that day. The storming 
of the Bishop's Palace was visible to the troops on this side, and 
the spectacle is described as having been most brilHant and mag- 
nificent. During the night, the enemy abandoned the second fort, 
El Diablo, and a number of smaller works in the vicinity, retiring 
to their main defences in and near the Cathedral Plaza. This 
abandonment is supposed to have been caused by an alarm w^hich 
occurred in the volunteer's camp, w^ho apprehended an attack from 
a reported reinforcement of the enemy, and which in turn alarmed 
the Mexicans by a report reaching them that a large force was ar- 
riving to reinforce us. It is, however, most probable, that after 
the unexpected fall of the Bishop's Palace, the Mexicans, fearful 
of a combined attack, withdrew their forces in order to concentrate 
them. 

Early on the morning of the 23d, the 5th Infantry, by orders 
of Gen. Worth, transported the captured nine-pounder from Fort 
Soldada, to an adjoining hill, where the 5th had previously bivou- 
acked, and which overlooked the town ; this difficult task was ac- 
complished by 9, A. M., when shortly after, several hundred lan- 
cers were seen foraging in the fields below, who were immediately 
opened upon with great slaughter, driving them towards the town. 
This gun was served by Lieut. J. P. Smith, and did great execu- 
tion, dispersing afterwards a large force at the Plaza de Came, and 
keeping up a steady fire on the cathedral. 

In the mean time. Major Brown was directed to return to the 
Mill of Santa Catarina, with a company of the artillery battalion, 
Blanchard's volunteers, Lieut. Whitall's company of the 5th, and 
a section of Mackall's battery, with two companies of Rangers, to 
guard the pass, (which was aptly called by Gen. Worth, the Ther- 
mopylsB of Monterey,) and the bridge over the Arroya Topa. As 
soon as this detachment had fairly got off, the plan of assault on 
the town was determined on. Lieut. Meade, of the engineer 
corps, and Capt. McCulloch, with a detachment of his company, 
gallantly went forth to reconnoitre the city, and ascertained that 
the enemy had abandoned it as far as the cemetery. At 10 o'clock. 
Gen. Worth ordered down from the heights, the 7th and 5th In- 
fantry, leaving Capt. Wm. Chapman's company, and Lieut. P 
Lugenbeel, o/ the latter regiment, to protect the nine-pounder. 



SECOND DIVISION ENTERS THE CITY. 191 

A heavy and continued roar of artillery was now heard from 
the eastern side of the town, and it was plainly perceptible from 
the Bishop's Palace, that the First and Third Divisions had again 
become engaged in desperate contest. Believing that Gen. Taylor 
was conducting a main attack, intended to be made in conjunction 
with the western forces, and that his orders to that effect had mis- 
carried, (the distance from head-quarters being a circuit of some 
seven miles,) Gen. Worth immediately ordered Col. Hays' regi- 
ment of Rangers to hold themselves in readiness to enter the city, 
on foot, as sharp-shooters. Two columns of attack were then 
formed, to move along the two principal streets : the right consist- 
ing of four companies of the 7th Infantry, under Capt. T. H. 
Holmes, with a twelve-pound howitzer of Mackall's battery, under 
Lieut. J. G. Martin ; the left, of four companies of the 8th Infan- 
try, under Capt. Screven, with two six-pounders of Mackall's bat- 
tery ; while four companies of the artillery battahon, commanded 
by Capt. Vinton, followed as a corps de reserve, the whole under 
command of Lieut. Col. Childs. The Texian Rangers were di- 
vided, Col. Hays accompanying the right column, and Lieut. Col. 
Walker, that of the left. 

At 2 o'clock, p. M., Col. Childs advanced with the leading co- 
lumn to the left, and passed the Plaza de la Capilla without resist- 
ance, but on entering the Plaza de Carne, the command sustained 
a heavy volley of musketry from the house-tops, until it reached 
a house on the south-east corner of the square, where it became 
sheltered. The right column which had advanced up the street, 
near the river side, had felt its way along until it reached a de- 
serted barricade, about four squares from the Cathedral or Grand 
Plaza, when a tremendous fire opened upon it from the loop-holed 
walls, parapets, and cross batteries, rendering its further advance 
impossible. At this time. Major Monroe, chief of artillery, ar- 
rived from Gen. Taylor's camp, with a ten-inch mortar, which was 
immediately advanced to the Plaza Capilla, with the ammunition 
train, under escort of a company of the 8th Infantry, and the re- 
maining three companies of the 7th Infantry, under Capt. Miles. 
The mortar was left in the cemetery of the Plaza, in charge of 
Lieut. Lovell, of the 4th Artillery, and was soon placed in posi- 
tion. Col. Staniford, with one company of the 8th, and one com- 
pany of the 5th, was left to guard the castle and the prisoners, 
while the remainder of the 5th regiment, and Duncan's light ar- 
tillery, with Gen. Worth and staff, now entered the city. 

Arriving at the Plaza de Carne, in the midst of a galhng fire, 
Gen. Worth proceeded to make a further disposition of his troops, 
the immediate command being given to Brig. Gen. P. F. Smith, 
who now led the right column, reinforced by two companies of the 



192 THE STREET FIGHT. 

5th, under Major Scott, commanded by Lieuts. M. Rosecrants and 
S. Norvell. Col. Hays was ordered to mask his men, and proceed 
with his command in the direction of the cathedral. Capt. Miles, 
with three companies of the 7th, and Capt. Merrill, with two com- 
panies of the Oth regiment, were ordered to join Col. Childs, and 
approach with Walker's men in the same direction to the left — 
both columns advancing on parallel streets. Capt. Sanders, with 
Lieut. S. Van Vliet, of the 3d Artillery, accompanied this party 
with detachments, carrying crow-bars, pick-axes, ladders, &c., and 
broke into the houses along the streets, for the purpose of advanc- 
ing and sheltering our troops. 

Every street was barricaded with heavy works of masonry, the 
walls being some three or four feet thick, with embrasures for one 
or more guns which raked the streets ; the walls of gardens and 
sides of houses were all loop-holed for musketry ; the tops of the 
houses were covered with troops, who were sheltered behind pa- 
rapets, some four feet high, upon which were piled sand bags for 
their better protection, and from which they showered down a hur- 
ricane of balls. 

Between three and four o'clock, from the cessation of the fire 
in the opposite direction, it was evident that the enemy had be- 
come disengaged, which enabled them to draw off men and guns 
to our side, as their fire had now become almost doubly increased. 
The street-fight became appalling — both columns were now 
close engaged with the enemy, and steadily advanced inch by 
inch — our artillery was heard rumbling over the paved streets, 
galloping here and there, as the emergency required, and pouring 
forth a blazing fire of grape and ball — volley after volley of mus- 
ketry, and the continued peals of artillery became almost deafen- 
ing — the artillery of both sides raked the streets, the balls strik- 
ing the houses with a terrible crash, while amid the roar of battle 
were heard the battering instruments used by the Texians. 
Doors were forced open, walls were battered down — entrances 
made through the longitudinal walls, and the enemy driven from 
room to room, and from house to house, followed by the shrieks 
of women, and the sharp crack of the Texian rifles. Cheer after 
cheer was heard in proud and exulting defiance, as the Texians 
or regulars gained the house-tops by means of ladders, while they 
poured in a rain of bullets upon the enemy on the opposite houses. 
It was indeed a most strange and novel scene of warfare. 

The column of Col. Childs sustained a dreadful fire in the Plaza, 
and while forcing its way up the streets. Amid this storm of de- 
struction, the daring and noble Capt. R. C. Gathn, of the 7th In- 
fantry, was severely wounded in the arm. while gallantly leading 
on his company. This column had now moved forward two 



llil!t!il:lll!!l!llil!!lli!'lp'^!i| 




THE STREET FIGHT. 193 

squares, both sides of the Plaza being occupied by our troops ; 
while Walker's Texians were working their way towards the 
enemy through that line of buildings, by means of pick-axes and 
their rifles. Capts. Screven, of the 8th, and Merrill, of the 5th, 
had advanced so far as to gain a line of buildings to the east, and 
were driving the enemy before them. The two companies of the 
5th were commanded by Lieuts. D. H. McPhail and P. A. Far- 
relly, the latter the youngest officer in the regiment, (Lieut. Ros- 
sell, the commanding officer of his company, being wounded,) who 
maintained this advanced position, keeping up a fire upon the 
enemy, occupying the houses in the vicinity and in the next street 
beyond, which was used by the enemy as the principal thoroughfare 
to the Citadel. This position was gallantly held until dark, when 
Capt. Merrill retired to occupy the college building for the night. 
The column on the next street, under Brig. Gen. Smith, was at 
the same time heard in desperate conflict with the enemy. Capt. 
Holmes, with the Texians under Col. Hays, had pushed their 
way with crow-bars and pick-axes, through houses and garden 
walls, under a continuous heavy fire of grape, shot, and musketry, 
until they came within point-blank range of the enemy in the Ca- 
thedral Plaza. Capts. R. H. Ross and G. R. Paul, with two com- 
panies of the 7th, had taken post in a redoubt on the left bank of 
the river, which they bravely held under the heavy fire of the 
enemy. During the engagement, Lieut. F. Gardner led the ad- 
vance of the 7th, with ladders and pick-axes for the scahng par- 
ties. At one time all his men at the ladders were either killed or 
wounded, himself and Cluarter-master Sergeant Henry alone es- 
caping. Lieut. N. J. T. Dana at the same time rendered valuable 
service. The 7th Infantry lost one killed and eight wounded. 
The Texians, well used to this mode of warfare, were picking ofl* 
the Mexicans at every chance, from behind the walls and parapets. 
The batteries of Duncan and Mackall did great execution, and 
sustained a considerable loss in horses. Late in the afternoon, 
Major Brown's command was ordered up from the mill; just pre- 
vious to which, however, they had fallen in with and driven back 
the advance guard of a large escort of 700 pack-mules, laden with 
flour, bizcochos, or hard buiscuit, for the besieged army. Great 
was the enemy's surprise to meet with the American forces on 
the Saltillo road, and greater still to see our flag displaying its folds 
Ion the captured heights. On entering the city, the command of 
iMajor Brown was soon under fire, Lieut. J. F. Irons doing good 
iexecution with his piece of artillery. Towards night, Capt. Chap- 
Iman, of the 5th, with his company, moved down from the height 
with the captured gun, and crossing the river, brought it over to. 
the Bishop's Palace. 

17 



194 TERROR OF THE BESIEGED. 

"The flag of the Spanish consul," says Mr. Kendall, "flying 
in Morelos street, near the post-office, was pierced in a hundred 
places ; the iron bow windows of the houses, which projected but 
a few inches into the streets, were torn and rent asunder by round- 
shot. The city had been partially deserted by the inhabitants : 
still many women were seen in the door-ways and in the streets, 
and even where the battle was raging, freely offering our men 
oranges and other fruits. Frightened out of their senses, they 
yet seemed impressed with the belief that we were to conquer, 
and thus attempted to propitiate our protection and good-will. 
Many ladies, too, of the better class — the wives and daughters of 
civil functionaries and merchants as well as officers of the army — 
remained in their houses, determined to abide the issue of the 
siege. In one room, in particular, into which our men had picked 
an entrance through a wall of massive thickness, a large number 
of females were found. They were alarmed to a degree that was 
painful, filled as their ears had been with lying stories of the bru- 
tahty of the Americans of the North, as our people are called by- 
the Mexicans, and it was with the greatest difficulty that they 
could be assured of their safety." 

We had now gained the possession of the city, on the west side, 
to within one square of the Cathedral Plaza, where the Mexican 
forces were concentrated, having also carried a large building in 
the Plaza de Carne, which overlooked the principal defences in 
the city, on the roof of which were placed, during the night, two 
howitzers, for the purpose of raking the house-tops on the morrow. 

«^ It was not until the sun was down," continues Mr. Kendall, 
" and darkness had covered the scene, that the battle ceased — not 
until it was impossible to distinguish friend from foe, that the con- 
flict in the least abated. Gen. Smith now sent a communication 
to Gen. Worth, to the effect that he could hold all his positions 
during the night, and it was immediately determined upon to with- 
draw none of the troops save such of the Texians as were with 
Hays on the river side of the town. Even these would not have 
been called back had not their horses needed attention, and had not 
some of them been required for picket-guards and other duty in 
the rear. But although the active conflict had ceased, the troops 
in the city did not rest from their labours. A bakery — El Pana- 
deria del Gallo — which was located immediately at Gen. Smith's 
position, and under fire of the enemy, was set in active operation 
by Lieut. Hanson, one of his aids, and furnished batch after batch 
of bread during the night for the half-famished men." 

During the night, soldiers and officers occupied the Plaza and 
the tops of houses, keeping a strict guard upon the movements of 
the enemy. The Texians, under Hajs, camped at the base of the 



THE CITY AT NIGHT. 195 

Bishop's Palace, and a strong picket-guard was posted in the rear, 
while those under Walker kept their position near the post-office. 
At dark, the mortar which had been imbedded in the cemetery, 
and masked by the church wall, opened its fire upon the Grand 
Plaza, under the direction of Major Monroe. The first bomb fell 
a httle short, but the projecting charge being increased, produced 
exact results, which soon caused a return fire with shells from the 
enemy's howitzers. The night was cloudy, and the winds of a 
foreboding storm freshened on the sultry air; scattered clouds 
chased each other through the sky ; below lay the city, wrapped 
in the drapery of darkness, whose folds covered the dreadful scene 
of the carnage and ruin of its streets, where lay dead horses, de- 
molished masonry, broken arms and cast-off accoutrements of sol- 
diers ; batteries of artillery were drawn up in the plazas, in which, 
and on the tops of the surrounding houses, were sentineled our 
troops ; farther yet towards the Cathedral, confusion and disorder 
marked the Mexicans' defeat ; beautiful gardens and villas lay in 
ruins ; their works of art were demolished, their dead lay on the 
house-tops and in the streets, while the Grand Plaza swarmed 
with their concentrated forces, and a desolation and despair pre- 
vailed among their army. For a moment all was hushed in "that 
darkness which entombs the face of earth." Peace seemed to 
hover over the scene of ruin and strife, and waving her branch of 
olive, to command the contending parties to cease the wild war of 
bloodshed and devastation. It was but for a moment, when bombs 
and shells were seen crossing each other as they rose to the height 
of their curve in the heavens, gleaming through the air like fiery 
comets on their course, and bursting with a loud report. The 
view at this time, from the Bishop's Palace, was magnificent. No 
further incident occurred during the night. The wounded were 
removed to Arista's hacienda, which was converted into an hospital, 
and every preparation was made to renew the attack on the coming 
morrow with redoubled vigour. 

Early in the morning, a detachment of Rangers, under Gen. 
Burleson, had been ordered to escort a wagon train to Gen. Tay- 
lor's camp, and to bring round the camp utensils and pack-mules 
of the Texians. It was late before the train started, and as the 
road was heavy and circuitous, it did not reach camp until after- 
noon. On arriving at Walnut Grove, the scene that presented 
itself was sad in the extreme. The camp seemed hung with a 
cloud of gloom ; the tents, from which went forth to battle the 
heroic and the brave, were now deserted and lonely; occasionally 
were heard the groans of the wounded, while the weary guard 
only were seen. The trees themselves seemed to have lost 
their lustrous glow ; the lovely green sward was dry and withered, 



196 FIRST AND THLRD DIVISIONS ON THE TWENTY-THIRD. 

and the cool, running springs murmured forth a lay of sorrow, 
while before they merrily rippled along with sparkhng gladness. 
It was indeed a grievous and a melancholy change from the morn- 
ing of the 19th. 

At this time the First and Third Divisions, which, as we have 
seen, had been engaged all the morning with the enemy, in the 
city, had just been ordered by Gen. Taylor to withdraw, and w© 
now proceed to give to the reader the particulars of the operations 
which closed the jfight on their side. 

As the day dawned on Wednesday morning, (the 23d,) it was 
discovered that the enemy had evacuated Fort El Diablo, and the 
€idjacent works, when Gen. Quitman ordered Col. Davis, with a 
portion of his regiment, supported by Lieut. Col. Anderson, with 
two companies of the Tennessee regiment, to take possession of 
the works. This was promptly done ; but the enemy having 
withdrawn their artillery during the night, nothing of consequence 
fell into our hands except a few prisoners and some ammunition. 
Fort El Diablo commands a view of the cathedral, and a portion 
of the great plaza of the city. To the right of this fort, in the 
advance, was another half-moon redoubt, or breastwork, which 
was connected with the heavy stone buildings and walls adjoining 
a block of the city, about one hundred and fifty yards distant. 
From this the enemy commenced a fire on Davis's men, through 
an opening in the rear of the fort, (see Map, No. 3,) when a sharp 
fire was returned by the Mississippians to dislodge them. In the 
mean time. Gen. Taylor was advancing from camp with the First 
Division and the remainder of the Third, when the above facts 
were reported to him by Gen. Quitman, who received discretion- 
ary orders to enter the city as far as he might deem it prudent. 
Brig. Gen. T^viggs, with his command, was then ordered up as a 
reserve. Col. Davis proceeded with eight men to reconnoitre the 
ground in the advance, and on his return met Lieut. Graves, who, 
with a party of riflemen and a company of Tennesseeans, under 
Capt. McMurray, had been sent forward by Gen. Q,uitman 
towards the fort on the left, and whom he advised to retire, as they 
might draw the enemy's fire. Col. Davis, with three companies 
of his regiment and one of Tennesseeans, was then ordered to ad- 
vance on the enemy's works, which they did, the enemy flying 
before them, until they reached the half-moon work, when a tre- 
mendous fire of musketry was opened from the stone buildings 
and walls in the rear, which made it necessary for them to select 
another position less exposed. Two companies of infantry were 
then posted to defend the lodgment that had been effected, until 
they should be reinforced. Lieut. Wm. A. Nichols, of the 2d 
Artillery, aid to Gen. Quitman, was despatched to order up the 



197 

brigade. Maj. Bradford advanced with the balance of the Missis- 
sippi regiment, and the engagement soon became general. The 
enemy occupied the house-tops and parapets in numbers, and 
poured in a heavy fire from every position of apparent security. 
The gallant Davis, leading the advance with detached parties, was 
rapidly entering the city, penetrating into buildings, and gradually 
driving the enemy from their positions, when Gen. Henderson, 
(who had been out in the direction of the Cadereita road, by 
which it was reported the enemy was retreating,) with the Texians 
under Woods, dismounted, entered the city, and forcing his way 
under a heavy fire of musketry and grape, soon came up with 
the advance. The conflict now became most animated and 
spirited. The Texians rushed from house to house, followed by 
the volunteers, breaking through the walls and going from roof to 
roof, driving back the enemy with their unerring rifles, and slaugh- 
tering them on every side. Gen. Lamar, who had been fighting 
with the Mississippians, now joined the Texians, and was fre- 
quently seen waving his sword and directing them where to press 
forward. When a street had to be crossed which was raked by 
the enemy's fire, a hole or door-way Avas at once made on the side 
of the house where the party wished to cross from, and the door 
of some opposite house being marked out, a few men, with bars 
and pick-axes, would make a running dash at it, and soon an en- 
trance being effected, the remainder of the party would follow 
at full speed, drawing down the enemy's fire upon them from all 
quarters. In a word, nearly the same scenes were enacted which 
we have just described, as having occurred on the western side of 
the city ; and it is rather remarkable, that Avhile Taylor and Worth 
had approached to within nearly a square of the Cathedral Plaza 
with their forces, each was unconscious of the other's position at 
the time. 

Capt. Bragg's battery, which had been playing on the Cathe- 
dral, the top of which was covered with troops, was ordered to 
advance with a section, and joined the volunteers in the streets, 
supported by the 3d Infantry. The pieces were served under 
Lieuts. S. G. French and G. H. Thomas, with distinguished 
bravery and abihty. Lieut. French lost four men killed and 
wounded at his piece, out of seven. Capt. Ridgely, in the mean 
time, kept up his fire from the captured works upon the city, 
sighting the piece himself, and then giving the order to fire, he 
would, with his glass, watch the efiiect upon the enemy. Col. 
Davis, with his command, continued to press forward through the 
streets until nearly opposite to, and within one square of, the 
Grand Plaza ; here the gallant Capt. J. R. Smith, of the disbanded 
Louisiana volunteers, who had joined Davis's regiment, broke 

17* 



198 UNFLINCHING BRAVERY OF THE VOLUNTEERS. 

open a house to shelter our troops, and acted throughout the street 
fight with great intrepidity. The gallant Lieut. E. R. Price, also 
of the Louisiana volunteers, served as a private in the ranks with 
this command. It was now about half-past 4 o'clock, p. m., when 
Gen. Taylor determined to withdraw the troops to the captured 
forts in order to effect, in concert with Gen. Worth, a combined 
attack upon the town. The troops accordingly fell back in good 
order to the forts. Our loss this day was very trifling, while that 
of the enemy on both sides of the town could not have been less 
than three hundred. Gen. Taylor, on returning to camp, was 
informed of Gen. Worth's intended attack upon the upper part of 
the city, induced by the heavy firing in the lower part. It was 
much to be regretted that this information did not reach him 
before ; but, as it was now late, the General determined to make 
no further attempt until he could have an interview with Worth 
on the next morning. Late in the evening, the Ohio and Ken- 
tucky troops of Hamer's brigade relieved that of Gluitman's in the 
Forts Teneria and El Diablo. Capt. Webster, with his howitzers, 
relieved Ridgely in the former work, and during the night opened 
a fire of shell upon the Cathedral, which was returned by the 
Citadel. 

Every preparation was made for active service on the morrow, 
when it was thought that the combined attack would carry the 
town. 

" It should be recorded," says Gen. Gluitman, " to the credit 
of the volunteer troops, that the greater portion of them had been 
without sustenance since the morning of the 22d, and exposed 
throughout that very inclement and rainy night, to severe duty, 
without blankets or overcoats, and yet not a murmur was heard 
among them ; their alacrity remained unabated to the last mo- 
ment. The character of this affair, the troops being necessarily 
separated into many small parties, gave frequent occasion to the 
exhibition of individual courage and daring. The instances oc- 
curred so frequently, in which both officers and men distinguished 
themselves, that to recount those which fell under my own obser- 
vation, or which were brought to my notice by officers, would 
extend this report to an improper length." 

At noon, while our troops were closely engaged in the lower 
part of the city. Gen. Taylor received, by a flag, the following 
communication from the Governor of the State of New Leon : 

Monterey, Sept. 23 — 8 o'clock, a. m. 
As you are resolved to occupy the place by force of arms, and 
the Mexican general-in-chief is resolved to defend it at every cost, 
as his honour and duty require him to do, thousands of victims, 



POSITION OF THE ARMY ON THE TWENTY-THIRD. 199 

who, from indigence and want of means, find themselves now in 
the theatre of war, and who would be uselessly sacrificed, claim the 
right, which in all times and in all countries humanity extends. As 
Governor of the State, and a legitimate representative of the peo- 
ple, I state their case to you, and hope, from your civihzation and 
refinement, that whatever may be the event of the present con- 
test, you will issue orders that famiHes shall be respected, or will 
grant a reasonable time for them to leave the capital. 

I have the honour to salute you, general-in-chief of the army 
of occupation of the United States, and to assure you of my highest 
consideration. 

God and liberty. 

Franco de Morales. 
General-in-chief 

of the Army of Occupation of the United States, 

This request Gen. Taylor declined granting. The note was 
first sent to Gen. Worth, the Mexicans behoving that Gen. Tay- 
lor was on that side of the town. 

Such was the position of the American army in and before the 
city of Monterey on the day of the 23d. The enemy still held 
their strongest positions, the Cathedral Plaza and the Citadel, with 
more than twice the number of our troops to defend them. The 
former commanded an avenue of retreat through a mountain pass 
to Saltillo, while the latter, a perfect San Juan de Ulloa to the 
town, being a work of solid masonry, enclosing a large rectangu- 
lar building, formerly a monastery, with four bastioned fronts, 
mounting thirty-one guns, to which the enemy could at any time 
retreat, commanded the city. 

Some years ago a few Texians, with a force under Gen. 
Canales, (who was then in arms against his government,) held this 
place, without the new strong work that now surrounds it, against 
the Mexican forces of the city, and were enabled to make good 
their retreat. 



200 CONTINUATION OF THE BATTLE. 



CHAPTER XX. 

The Morning of the 24th — Continuation of the Battle — Lieut. Farrelly — Lieut. 
Edw. Deas — Flag from Ampudia, with Letter to Gen. Taylor — Suspension 
of Hostilities — Surrender of the City — Disappointment of the Texians — 
The Capitulation-Letter of Col. Davis— Terms of Ceremony of the Surren- 
der — Evacuation of the City — Visit to Gen. Ampudia — His Address and 
Pronunciamento — Ampudia' s Account of the Battle. 

At daylight, on the 24th of September, the Texians under 
Lieut. Col. Walker, who had occupied the post-office and the 
governor's house during the preceding night, opened a murderous 
fire upon the enemy with their rifles. During the latter part of 
the night, several of them had crossed the street and picked a 
hole through the sohd wall of a house on the opposite corner. 
This movement was made with great caution and secrecy. As 
the last stroke of the pick-axe went through the heavy masonry, 
a company of Mexican infantry, stationed inside, attempted to 
escape by the front door. One half of the company were shot 
dead before they crossed the street, so deadly Avas the fire of the 
Texians from the post-office, and at the same time a new line of 
operations was opened by the assailants. The fight was also 
begun by the regulars, who occupied advanced positions on the 
house-tops. Lieut. Farrelly, of the 5th, with his company opened 
a brisk fire on the enemy occupying the building called the sand- 
bag house, which this intrepid young officer sustained with great 
gallantry. 

It was a most delightful morning ; the late rains had cooled the 
air, and vaUey and mountain smiled once more in the bright and 
joyous sunbeams, as if to gladden and cheer on our men to new 
exertions for victory. All was fife, stir, and activity. McCul- 
loch's company, which had been posted in the rear on picket- 
guard, now dashed into the city on their horses, and M-ere drawn 
up into a line near some jacales, where they were ordered by Col. 
Hays to dismount and turn their horses into a corn-field, to march 
down the street, and form on the tops of the houses. Mexican 
women were standing in the doors and offering our men oranges 
and other fruits, as if to conciliate us, telling us that nearly all 
the Mexican cavalry had left the city last night, that Ampudia 
was a coward, and that we would certainly carry the city before 
sundown. 

While we were marching through the streets, the men were 
requested by Lieut. Edward Deas to assist in dragging the artil- 
lery over the barricades which crossed the streets. This we did, 
throwing down the stones and carrying them out of the way, jo 



PROPOSAL TO CAPITULATE. 201 

as to permit the gun-carriages to pass. The ratthng of the artil- 
lery over the paved streets, the shouts of our men, the hurried 
pace of the infantry, and the clang of arms, all added to the ex- 
citement. The men having heard of our great loss, and knowing 
well the position we now occupied, rushed forward to the onset. 

While thus preparing for a renewal of the attack, the enemy's 
bugles were heard sounding a parley, and soon a Mexican officer 
bearing a white flag, accompanied by others, was seen dashing 
towards our lines. This officer was Col. Moreno, who bore a let- 
ter from Ampudia to Gen. Taylor. We here give the following 
extract from Gen. Taylor's despatch to our government descrip- 
tive of this affair, with Ampudia's letter and Gen. Taylor's reply : 

Head-quarters Army of Occupation, 

Camp before Monterey, Sept. 25, 1846. 

Sir, — Early in the morning of the 24th I received a flag from 
the town, bearing a communication from Gen. Ampudia, which I 
enclose, (No. 2,) and to which I returned the answer, (No. 3.) I 
also arranged with the bearer of the flag a cessation of fire until 
12 o'clock, which hour I appointed to receive the final answer of 
Gen. Ampudia at Gen. Worth's head-quarters. Before the ap- 
pointed time, however. Gen. Ampudia had signified to Gen. 
Worth his desire for a personal interview with me, for the pur- 
pose of making some definitive arrangement. An interview was 
accordingly appointed for 1 o'clock, and resulted in the naming 
of a commission to draw up articles of agreement regulating the 
withdrawal of the Mexican forces, and a temporary cessation of 
hostilities. The commissioners named by the Mexican general- 
in-chief were Gens. Ortega and Requena, and Don Manuel M. 
Llano, governor of New Leon. Those named on the American 
side were Gen. Worth, Gen. Henderson, governor of Texas, and 
Col. Davis, of the Mississippi volunteers. The commission 
finally settled upon the articles, of which I enclose a copy, (No. 4,) 
the duplicates of which (in Spanish and English) have been duly 
signed. Agreeably to the provisions of the 4th article, our troops 
have this morning occupied the Citadel. 

It will be seen that the terms granted the Mexican garrison 
are less rigorous than those first imposed. The gallant defence 
of the town, and the fact of a recent change of government in 
Mexico, behoved to be favourable to the interests of peace, in- 
duced me to concur with the commission in these terms, which will, 
I trust, receive the approval of the government. The latter con- 
sideration also prompted the convention for a temporary cessation 
of hostilities. Though scarcely warranted by my instructions, 
yet the change of affairs since those instructions were issued 



202 

seemed to warrant this course. I beg to be advised, as early as 
practicable, whether I have met the views of the government in 
these particulars. ***** 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. Taylor, 
Maj. Gen. U. S. Army, commanding. 
The Adjutant-General of the Army, Washington, D. C. 

(No. 2.) 
D. Pedro Ampudia, General-in-chief, to Maj. Gen. Taylor : 

Head-quarters at Monterey, 

• September 23, 1846, 9 o'clock, P. M. 

Senor General, — Having made the defence of which I beheve 
this city susceptible, I have fulfilled my duty, and have satisfied 
that military honour, which, in a certain manner, is common to 
all armies of the civilized world. 

To prosecute the defence, therefore, would only result in dis- 
tress to the population, who have already suffered enough from 
the misfortunes consequent on war ; and, taking it for granted 
that the American government has manifested a disposition to 
negotiate, I propose to you to evacuate the city and its fort, taking 
with me the personnel and materiel which have remained, and 
under the assurance that no harm shall ensue to the inhabitants 
who have taken a part in the defence. 

Be pleased to accept the assurance of my most distinguished 
consideration. Pedro de Ampudia. 

To Senor Don Z. Taylor, General-in-chief of the American 

Army. 

(No. 8.) 

Head-quarters Army of Occupation, 
Camp hefore Monterey, Sept. 24, 1846, 7 o'clock, A. M. 

Sir, — Your communication, bearing date at 9 o'clock, p. m., on 
the 23d inst., has just been received by the hands of Col. Moreno. 

In answer to your propositiori to evacuate the city and fort, with 
all the personnel and materiel of war, I have to state that my duty 
compels me to decline acceding to it. A complete surrender of 
the town and garrison, the latter as prisoners of war, is now de- 
manded. But such surrender will be upon terms, and the gallant 
defence of the place, creditable alike to the Mexican troops and 
nation, will prompt me to make those terms as liberal as possible. 
The garrison will be allowed, at your option, after laying down its 
arms, to retire to the interior, on condition of not serving again 
during the war, or until regularly exchanged. I need hardly say 
that the rights of non-combatants will be respected. 

An answer to this communication is required by 13 o'clock. 



SUSPENSION OF HOSTILITIES. 203 

If you assent to an accommodation, an officer will be despatched 
at once, under instructions to arrange the conditions. 
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Z. Taylor, Maj. Gen. U. S. S.. commanding. 
Senor D. Pedro de Ampudia, General-in-chief, Monterey. 

This caused a suspension of hostilities, and it was stated the 
truce would last an hour and a half. On advancing into the houses 
and yards, the enemy's pack-mules were discovered saddled up, 
as if ready for a hasty start, and every thing seemed to indicate 
that, from some cause the preceding night, they had become ter- 
ribly alarmed, or, as the Texians said, taken ivith a big scare. 
On entering one of the houses that the enemy had deserted that 
morning, a wild scene of confusion presented itself. The room 
was well, if not richly, furnished ; the floor was strewn with car- 
tridges and equipments of officers. Maps, muster-rolls, reports, 
plans, and orders, lay scattered over the table, while near the pens 
and ink lay a bunch of cigarritos — every thing denoting that the 
room had been most suddenly abandoned. By means of ladders, 
the Texians had now mounted the tops of the houses nearest the 
enemy, and prepared to renew the fight on equal terms with the 
Mexicans, who were some eighty or a hundred yards opposite 
from us, and in full view. Our men were at work with pick- 
axes and bowie knives picking holes through the parapet walls, 
which line the house-tops and form a breast-work about four feet 
high and two feet thick, for the muzzle of our guns, so that we 
could lie down and fire. The enemy, in the mean time, was also 
busy piling up sand-bags on the parapets for their further pro- 
tection. In this situation we were kept waiting in the hot sun, 
watching, with no small interest, the enemy, and expecting every 
minute that the truce would terminate, when it was confidently 
expected that the conflict would be resumed. At last 12 o'clock 
came, when an order was issued that no firing should commence 
until a signal should be given by a cannon-shot. At the houses 
we occupied, the Mexican women cooked large dinners, which they 
sold to the men at a picayune a plate. It was the first regular meal 
we had eaten for four days, and the men enjoyed it to the full. 

In this situation we were kept waiting until hour after hour 
expired — ^but still no signal was given. Then came surmises ; 
all thought it a ruse on the part of the enemy to gain time, as it 
was reported that they were expecting a reinforcement. At the 
striking of the half hours of the old Cathedral, a commotion would 
take place among the enemy, by their suddenly disappearing be- 
hind their sand-bags, while we, on our part, would lie cose to 
■our guns, thinking that the time of the truce had expired. During 
this suspense, Capt. Cheshire, a private of Capt. McCulloch's com- 



204 DISAPPOINTMENT OF THE TEXIANS. 

pany, a brave and gallant old warrior of Texas, was heard to eiwj' 
claim, " Look here, boys, do you see those two Mexes on the corner 
of the house opposite me ? Well, don't none of you shoot at them, 
they are my game — there's plenty all round for you." 

Thus hour after hour passed away, every one having picked 
out his man, until 5, p. m., when we received the news of the 
surrender and the conditions. At first, a burst of indignation and 
angry discontent was manifested on every side. No loud huzza 
rent the air, at our triumph over the enemy. To be sure, an 
order had been given, at the time of the information, not to cheer — 
but there was no need of it ; all was still, grave, and dignified — 
men felt as if they had been fighting only to gain a position from 
which they could fight, and in gaining which the pure blood of 
Americans had been shed, and they had yearned for the hour to 
come to wreak their vengeance on the foe. Never was stern 
determination more deeply marked upon their features — never 
were their nerves more tightly strung. And when they had at 
last gained the position for which they had so dearly fought, and 
held the enemy, as they supposed, within their grasp, only wait- 
ing for the order to crush them, they were told that their foe had 
capitulated, and were to be allowed seven days to leave the city, 
and to march out with their arms. The Texians were maddened 
with disappointment. There before them was their deadly and 
hated foe, Ampudia, whose cowardice and dishonesty they knew, 
and whose horrid cruelties they had suffered ; who had deceived 
them into a surrender at Mier, only to incarcerate them in the 
dungeons of Mexico — here, too, one of their noblest chiefs had 
fallen, and they had longed for the hour of revenge, which now 
seemed at hand, and felt that they could make every sacrifice to 
obtain it. It was a terrible moment — but their cooler judgment 
told them it was for the best, and gradually they became more 
reconciled ; the appeal to the magnanimity of their feelings was 
not without avail, and the storm-cloud of war passed from the ho- 
rizon, leaving in its stead the mantle of peace. 

Thus, after a hard-fought battle of more than three days, Mon- 
terey, the capital of Nueva Leon, was stormed and forced to sur- 
render to American arms. The city was defended by forty-two 
pieces of artillery, seven thousand regular troops, three thousand 
rancheros, or irregulars, with about two thousand citizens. Our 
force consisted of not over five thousand available troops, with no 
battering or heavy ordnance, only two howitzers, one mortar, and 
four batteries of light artillery, of four guns each. With this 
force we captured a city of fifteen thousand inhabitants, so fortified 
by art and nature as to render it almost impregnable. This vic- 
tory on our part was attended by a loss of five hundred killed 
and wounded, while the enemy sustained an acknowledged loss of 



LETTER. 205 

over one thousand. It was then, as we have said, a masterly 
stroke of strategic skill, to turn the whole position of the enemy, 
and take the city in the reverse. From this scientific and bold 
manoeuvre, resulted the extraordinary success which crowned our 
arms. It was the destructive effects of the mortar that first deter- 
mined Ampudia to capitulate. The first shell, discharged about 
7, p. M., fell close to the entrance of the Cathedral, where the priest 
was performing mass, and its explosion spread such destruction 
around, that Ampudia, being entreated by the priest and others, 
immediately wrote his letter to Gen. Taylor, proposing terms. 

The Cathedral, an immense building, was stored full of ammu- 
nition of all kinds, being the principal magazine of the enemy, the 
explosion of which would have been most terrific in its conse- 
quences. Ampudia' s, letter was dated at 9 o'clock, p. m., on the 
23d, but Col. Moreno, the bearer, did not reach Gen. Taylor until 
the next morning, on account of our strong picket-guard, which 
he could not approach with safety. He soon returned with Gen. 
Taylor's reply, demanding an unconditional surrender, to which 
the terrified Ampudia would certainly have assented, had he not 
been dissuaded by his officers, who besought him not to dishonour 
them by yielding to such terms, to which they themselves never 
would have submitted. 

In relation to the question raised, whether the enemy could have 
been made to surrender at discretion or not, we annex the follow- 
ing extract of a letter to the editor of the Union, from Col. Davis, 
as well as the details of the negotiation, and the final terms of the 
capitulation. 

Victoria Tamaulipas, Mexico, January 6, 1847. 

Dear Sir, * * * i (Ji(j ^ot then, nor do I now, beheve we 
could have made the enemy surrender at discretion. Had I en- 
tertained the opinion, it would have been given to the commission 
and to the commanding general, and would have precluded me 
from signing an agreement which permitted the garrison to retire 
with the honours of war. It is demonstrable, from the position and 
known prowess of the two armies, that we could drive the enemy 
from the town ; but the town was untenable whilst the main fort 
(called the new citadel) remained in the hands of the enemy. 
Being without siege artillery or intrenching tools, we could only 
hope to carry this fort by storm, after a heavy loss from our army, 
which, isolated in a hostile country, now numbered less than half 
the forces of the enemy. When all this had been achieved, what 
more would we have gained than by the capitulation ? 

Gen. Taylor's force was too small to invest the town ; it was, 

j therefore, always in the power of the enemy to retreat, bearing 

his light arms. Our army — poorly provided with very insufficient 

18 



206 MEMORANDA OF THE TERMS OF CAPITULATION. 

transportation — could not have overtaken, if they had pursued 
the flying enemy. Hence the conclusion, that, as it was not in 
our power to capture the main body of the Mexican army, it is 
unreasonable to suppose their general would have surrendered at 
discretion. The moral effect of retiring under the capitulation 
was certainly greater than if the enemy had retreated without our 
consent. By this course, we secured a large supply of ammuni- 
tion he had collected in Monterey, which, had the assault been 
continued, must have been exploded by our shells, as it was prin- 
cipally stored in the Cathedral, which, being supposed to be filled 
wath troops, was the especial aim of our pieces. The destruction 
which this explosion would have produced, must have involved 
the advance of both divisions of our troops ; and I commend this 
to the contemplation of those whose argum^its have been drawn 
from facts learned since the commissioners closed their negotiations. 
With these introductory remarks, I send a copy of a manuscript in 
my possession, which was prepared to meet such necessity as now 
exists for an explanation of the views which governed the commis- 
sioners in arranging the terms of capitulation — to justify the com- 
manding general, should misrepresentation and calumny attempt 
to tarnish his well-earned reputation, and, for all time to come, to 
fix the truth of the transaction. 

Please publish this in your paper, and beheve me your friend, 
&c. Jefferson Davis. 

Memoranda of the transactions in connection with the capitula- 
tion of Monterey, capital of Nueva Leon, Mexico. 

By invitation of Gen. Ampudia, commanding the Mexican 
army. Gen. Taylor, accompanied by a number of his officers, pro- 
ceeded on the 24th of September, 1846, to a house designated as 
the place at which Gen. Ampudia requested an interview. The 
parties being convened, Gen. Ampudia announced, as official infor- 
mation, that commissioners from the United States had been re- 
ceived by the government of Mexico ; and that the orders under 
which he had prepared to defend the city of Monterey had lest 
their force by the subsequent change of his own government. A 
brief conversation between the commanding generals shewed their 
views to be so opposite as to leave little reason to expect an ami- 
cable arrangement between them. 

Gen. Taylor said he would not delay to receive such proposi- 
tions as Gen. Ampudia indicated. One of Gen. Ampudia's party, 
I think the governor of the city, suggested the appointment of a 
mixed commission ; this was acceded to, and Gen. W. J. Worth, 
of the United States Army, Gen. J. Pinkney Henderson, of the 
Texian volunteers, and Col. Jefl^erson Davis, of the Mississippi Rifle- 
men, on the part of Gen. Taylor ; and Gen. J. Ma. Ortega, Gen. 



DEMAND BY U. S. COMMISSIONERS. 207 

P. Requena, and Senor the Governor, M. Ma. Llano, on the part 
of Gen Ampudia, were appointed. 

Gen. Taylor gave instructions to his commissioners, which, as 
understood, for they were brief and verbal, will be best shown by 
a copy of the demand which the United States commissioners pre- 
pared in the conference room, and here incorporated. 

Copy of demand by United States Commissioners. 

1. As the legitimate result of the operations before this place, 
and the present position of the contending armies, we demand the 
surrender of the town, the arms and munitions of war, and all 
other public property within the place. 

3. That the Mexican armed force retire beyond the Rinconada, 
Linares, and San Fernando on the coast. 

2. The commanding general of the army of the United States 
agrees that the Mexican officers reserve their side-arms and pri- 
vate baggage ; and the troops be allowed to retire under their 
officers and without parole, a reasonable time being allowed to 
withdraw the forces. 

4. The immediate delivery of the main work, now occupied, to 
the army of the United States. 

5. To avoid colhsions, and for mutual convenience, that the 
troops of the United States shall not occupy the town until the 
Mexican forces have been withdrawn, except for hospital purposes, 
storehouses, &c. 

6. The commanding general of the United States agrees not to 
advance beyond the line specified in the second section before the 
expiration of eight weeks, or until the respective governments can 
be heard from. 

The terms of the demand were refused by the Mexican com- 
missioners, who drew up a counter proposition, of which I only 
recollect that it contained a permission to the Mexican forces to 
retire with their arms. This was urged as a matter of soldierly 
pride, and as an ordinary courtesy. We had reached the limit 
of our instructions, and the commission rose to report the disa- 
greement. 

Upon returning to the reception room, after the fact had been 
announced that the commissioners could not agree upon terms, 
Gen. Ampudia _ entered at length upon the question, treating the 
point of disagreement as one which involved the honour of his 
country, spoke of his desire for a settlement without further blood- 
shed, and said he did not care about the pieces of artillery which 
he had at the place. Gen. Taylor responded to the wish to avoid 
unnecessary bloodshed. It was agreed the commission should re- 
assemble, and we were instructed to concede the small arms, and 
I supposed there would be no question about the artillery. The 



208 

Mexican commissioners now urged that, as all other arms had 
been recognised, it would be discreditable to the artillery, if re- 
quired to march out without any thing to represent their arm, and 
stated, in answer to an inquiry, that they had a battery of Hght- 
artillery, manoeuvred and equipped as such. The commission 
again rose, and reported the disagreement on the point of artillery. 

Gen. Taylor, hearing that more was demanded than the mid- 
dle-ground upon which, in a spirit of generosity, he had agreed 
to place the capitulation, announced the conference at an end, and 
rose in a manner which showed his determination to talk no more. 
As he crossed the room to leave it, one of the Mexican commis- 
sioners addressed him, and some conversation which I did not 
hear, ensued. Gen. Worth asked permission of Gen. Taylor, 
and addressed some remarks to Gen. Ampudia, the spirit of which 
was that which he manifested throughout the negotiation, viz., 
generosity and leniency, and a desire to spare the further effusion 
of blood. The commission reassembled, and the points of capitu- 
lation were agreed upon. After a short recess, we again repaired 
to the room in which we had parted from the Mexican commis- 
sioners. They were tardy in joining us, and slow in executing 
the instrument of capitulation. The 7th, 8th, and 9th articles 
were added during this session. At a late hour, the English 
original was handed to Gen. Taylor for his examination ; the 
Spanish original having been sent to Gen. Ampudia. Gen. Tay- 
lor signed and delivered to me the instrument, as it was submitted 
to him ; and I returned to receive the Spanish copy, with the sig- 
nature of Gen. Ampudia, and send that having Gen. Taylor's 
signature, that each general might countersign the original to be 
retained by the other. Gen. Ampudia did not sign the instrument, 
as was expected, but came himself to meet the commissioners. 
He raised many points which had been settled, and evinced a dis- 
position to make the Spanish differ in essential points from the 
Enghsh instrument. Gen. Worth was absent. Finally, he was 
required to sign the instrument prepared for his own commission- 
ers, and the Enghsh original was left with him, that he might 
have it translated, (which he promised to do that night,) and be 
ready the next morning with a Spanish duplicate of the Enghsh 
instrument left with him. By this means, the two instruments 
would be made to correspond, and he be compelled to admit his 
knowledge of the contents of the English original before he signed it. 

The next morning, the commission again met ; again the at- 
tempt was made, as had often been done before by solicitation, to 
gain some grant in addition to the compact. Thus we had, at 
their request, adopted the word capitulation in Ueu of surrender / 
they now wished to substitute stipulation for capitulation. It 
finally became necessary to make a peremptory demand for the 



THE TERMS OF CAPITULATION. 209 

immediate signing of the English instrument by Gen. Ampudia, 
and the literal translation (now perfected) by the commissioners 
and their general. The Spanish instrument first signed by Gen. 
Ampudia, was destroyed in presence of his commissioners ; the 
translation of our own instrument was countersigned by Gen. 
Taylor and delivered. The agreement was complete, and it only 
remained to execute the terms. 

Much has been said about the construction of Article 2 of the 
capitulation, a copy of which is hereto appended. Whatever am- 
biguity there may be in the language used, there was a perfect 
understanding by the commissioners upon both sides as to the 
intent of the parties. The distinction we made between hght- 
artillery, equipped and manceuvred as such, designed for and used 
in the field, and pieces being the armament of a fort, was clearly 
stated on our side ; and that it was comprehended on theirs, ap- 
peared in the fact that repeatedly they asserted their possession 
of light-artillery, and said they had one battery of fight pieces. 
Such conformity of opinion existed among our commissioners upon 
every measure which was finally adopted, that I consider them, 
in their sphere, jointly and severally responsible for each and 
every article of the capitulation. If, as originally viewed by Gen. 
Worth, our conduct has been in accordance with the peaceful 
policy of our government, and shall in any degree tend to con- 
summate that policy, we may congratulate ourselves upon the part 
we have taken. If otherwise, it will remain to me as a deliberate 
opinion, that the terms of the capitulation gave all which could 
have followed, of desirable result, from a further assault. It was 
in the power of the enemy to retreat, and to bear with him his 
small arms, and such a battery as was contemplated in the capitu- 
lation. The other grants were such as it was honourable in a 
conquering army to bestow, and which it cost magnanimity no- 
thing to give. * * * * Jefferson Davis, 

Colonel Mississippi Rijlemen. 
Camp near Monterey, Oct. 7, 1846. 
Terms of the capitulation of the city of Monterey, the capital of 
Nueva Leon, agreed upon by the undersigned cotninissionerSy 
to wit: Gen. Worth of the IT. S\ ^nny ; Gen. Henderson, of 
the Texian volunteers, and Col. Davis, of the Mississippi Rifle- 
men, on the part of Major Gen. Taylor, commanding in chief 
the United States forces ; and Gen. Requena and Gen. Ortega, 
of the army of Mexico, and SeTior Manuel M. Llano, Cover- 
nor of Nueva I^eon, on the part of SeTior Gen. Don Pedro 
Ampudia, commanding in chief the army of the North of 
Mexico. 

Art. 1. As the legitimate result of the operations before this 

18* 



210 THE TERMS OF CAPITULATION. 

place, and the present position of the contending armies, it is 
agreed that the city, the fortifications, cannon, the munitions of 
war, and all other pubhc property, with the undermentioned ex- 
ceptions, be surrendered to the commanding general of the United 
States forces now at Monterey. 

Art. 2. That the Mexican forces be allowed to retain the fol- 
lowing arms, to wit : The commissioned officers, their side arms ; 
the infantry, their arms and accoutrements ; the cavalry, their 
arms and accoutrements ; the artillery, one field battery, not to 
exceed six pieces, with twenty-one rounds of ammunition. 

Art. 3. That the Mexican armed forces retire within seven 
days from this date, beyond the line formed by the pass of the 
Rinconada, the city of Linares, and San Fernando de Pusos. 

Art. 4. That the citadel of Monterey be evacuated by the 
Mexican, and occupied by the American forces, to-morrow morn- 
ing at ten o'clock. 

Art. 5. To avoid colKsions, and for mutual convenience, that 
the troops of the United States will not occupy the city until the 
Mexican forces have withdrawn, except for hospital and storage 
purposes. 

Art. 6. That the forces of the United States will not advance 
beyond the fine specified in the third article, before the expiration 
of eight weeks, or until the orders of the respective governments 
can be received. 

Art. 7. That the public property to be dehvered, shall be 
turned over and received by officers appointed by the command- 
ing generals of the two armies. 

Art. 8. That all doubts as to the meaning of any of the pre- 
ceding articles, shall be solved by an equitable construction, and 
on principles of liberality to the retiring army. 

Art. 9. That the Mexican flag, when struck at the citadel, 
may be saluted by its own battery. 

W. J. Worth, 
Brigadier General^ United States Army, 

J. PiNKNEY Henderson, 
Major Gen. command' g Texlan Volunteers. 
i Jefferson Davis, 

Colonel Mississippi Riflemen. 
J. M. Ortega, 
T. Requena, 
Manuel M. Llano, 
J C Pedro Ampudia, 
Approved: I 2. Taylor, 

Major Gen. command'' g U. S. Army. 
Dated at Monterey, Sept. 24, 1846. 



EVACUATION OF THE CITY. 211 

On the next day, the 25th, the ceremony of the surrender took 
place, and the Mexican flag on the citadel went down, saluted by 
their cannon, and the stars and stripes rose proudly in its place, 
saluted in return by the guns of the Mexican fort, while the cheers 
of our brave men greeted its folds, as it disdainfully fluttered out 
on the breeze that wafted it from the staff' of its conquered foe. 
Many of the Mexican officers called on Gen. Worth, among whom 
were Don Francisco Berra, who commanded at the Obis Pado, or 
Bishop's Palace. Gen. Ortega, Col. Moreno, and others. While 
drinking with these gentlemen upon this occasion. Gen. Ortega 
gave the following toast, at whose pronouns, we and our, we could 
not help but smile. He said, " I drink to the perpetual peace of 
the two Republics, and may we hereafter ever be as brothers join- 
ed in one cause, and let us show to foreign nations the greatness 
of our power, while the valour of our arms shall teach all Europe 
that we can defy them." That day, a great portion of the Mexi- 
can cavalry and infantry marched out of the city, and they conti- 
nued to leave in detachments throughout the week, with a great 
flourish of drums and trumpets. It was a sight indeed to have 
seen the Mexican soldiery marching out of the city, dressed up in 
tawdry uniforms of blue and red,without shoes, having only san- 
dals to their feet. 

" That scene alone," says Mr. Kendall, in one of his graphic 
letters, " would almost have remunerated one for the long journey 
to Monterey. At the head of the column rode the commander of 
the division with his staff", accompanied by Major Scott, of the 5th 
Infantry, with his adjutant, (Lieut. Geo. Deas,) and Lieuts. Han- 
son, Robinson, and McLaws. Col. Peyton rode by the side of the 
chief, and received a very afl^ectionate embrace from him as we 
turned out to let the column march on, when the head had reached 
Palace Hill. And now was presented a scene that I can never 
forget. Two regiments of infantry led off", with colours flying, 
drums beating, and the trumpeters blowing with all their might. 
The fifers made all the noise they could. The men were all well 
armed, and the whole division seemed to be well appointed, with 
the exception of shoes. Three pieces of artillery were in the 
centre of the column, one six, one nine, and one twelve-pounder. 
The line, marching four abreast, extended about one mile. The 
army was accompanied by a great many females ; officers' wives 
on horseback, their faces muffled, and with hats on ; soldiers' wives 
mounted on donkeys or on foot, some of them carrying burdens 
that I would scarcely think of packing upon mules ; young wo- 
men with short petticoats, and hats, tripping lightly along ; young 
girls trudging along with their httle valuables in their arms. I 
noticed one pretty little creature, about nine years old, with a pet 



212 GENERAL AMPUDIA. 

chicken on one -arm, and a parrot perched upon her hand. The 
ugliest woman I ever heard of, was walking behind a poor httle 
flea-bit donkey, belabouring him with a large stick. The donkey- 
was ridden by a young woman, a second edition of the old one. 
A precious pair, that mother and daughter. Most of the soldiers 
looked sullen, and their eyes gleamed with hatred, and a desire 
for revenge." 

While one of their regiments were marching out of the city, in 
passing by the Texians camp of Rangers, a captain of their in- 
fantry saw one of our horses tied to a stake near the road, and 
seeing no one near, stole the horse and rode off at a rapid rate, but 
being soon followed by our men, on the discovery, he was over- 
taken, and the horse brought back. On informing the Mexican 
colonel of what had occurred, the officer, or horse thief, was im- 
mediately arrested, and his sword taken from him. 

During the afternoon, we had occasion to call on Gen. Ampu- 
dia, with two officers of the 7th Infantry, and Col. Moreno as in- 
terpreter, with a message from Gen. Worth. We found his quar- 
ters finely furnished, his tables loaded with fruit, wine and cigars ; 
while, in an adjoining apartment, were seen several women gau- 
dily dressed. On our presentation to him he merely bowed, 
standing with his hands in his breeches, with a white jacket on, 
and an unlit cigar in his mouth, and asked what we wanted, with- 
out even extending to us the courtesy of a seat, much less to par- 
take of the viands on his sumptuous table. He was evidently 
drunk, and no doubt had been, from appearances, beastly so, the 
night before. He is a large man of full six feet, inchned to cor- 
pulency, with little shrewd, cunning black eyes, indicative of de- 
ceit, intrigue and libertinism ; he wore an imperial, with a tuft of 
beard on his chin. There was nothing in his manners prepos- 
sessing or pleasing, but, on the contrary, we became disgusted 
with the man, and felt he was a villain, a tyrant, and a coward. 

The evening was spent by the officers and men of the division, 
in meeting with those friends who had been separated since the 
commencement of the battle, congratulating each other, inquiring 
after comrades, and mourning the fate of the wounded and the 
fallen. In the houses now occupied by our troops, the late quar- 
ters of Mexican officers, were found many public documents of 
Ampudia, which we give to the reader as a part of the history of 
the times. The following address was made by that officer at 
Saltillo, on his approach to Monterey, and by which it will be seen, 
he fondly expected to be reinforced by Santa Anna, before the 
battle at Monterey should take place ; but who only arrived at 
San Luis Potosi, on the 8th of October, two weeks after the battle 
waa fought. 



ampudia's address to the people. 213 

General's Quarters, in the City of Saltillo, 

August 28, 1846. 

Fellow-citizens, — For the second time 1 appear in this inte- 
resting part of the Mexican territory, commanding soldiers who 
anxiously seek the combat, in order to lower the insolence of the 
foreign invaders of our soil, and to free you from the odious sla- 
very to which they will undoubtedly reduce you, should they suc- 
ceed in carrying out their nefarious designs. Of this truth, you 
have before you visible examples, in the unfortunate fate of which 
your neighbouring brothers of Bejar, Bahia, and lately, those of 
the north of Tamaulipas, have been the victims. What a con- 
trast does this reprehensible system of conquest present — so un- 
worthy the nineteenth century — to the false promises and base 
seductions of which, on another side, our enemies avail themselves, 
in order to cool your patriotic spirit, and to abate your desire to 
obtain liberty ! And this they do, fellow-citizens, because they 
fear you, and are well aware that this great principle is incontro- 
vertible, that " when a nation wishes to be free, it must be free." 

Recollect, my countrymen, the heroic opposition which the 
Spanish nation — in its cities and forts — offered to the formidable 
army of the great Napoleon — an opposition which finally resulted in 
their success. And no less should you remember that the heroes of 
the emancipation of our metropoHs, unaccustomed to battle — with- 
out a knowledge of the science of war — without the necessary ele- 
ments to attempt it — and without the great reasons to actuate them, 
by which we should be influenced at present — fought bravely for 
a term of eleven years, until the chains which joined us to the will 
of a distant monarch were torn asunder. We ceased to be a co- 
lony, and Mexico, since 1821, has brilHantly shone in the galaxy 
of civilized nations. 

My friends, our brother departments are preparing for the battle 
— they will send to the field thousands of brave volunteers, with 
all necessary supplies ; and lastly, it is very probable that the 
chief of our independence — the founder of this repubhc — the 
worthy benefactor of the nation, and general of division — Don 
Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna — will return to the seat of war at 
the head of a large reinforcement of troops, in order to conduct 
the campaign personally. Thus, then, cheer up, my brave coun- 
trymen, and show your indignant hostility to our enemies by every 
means which your power, right, and position should dictate. 

Pedro de Ampudia. 

Soon after Ampudia's arrival at Monterey, having learned from 
his spies the force of our army, and its approach towards Serralvo, 
he issued the following pronunciamento : 



214 ^^ 

The General'in-chief of the Army of the North to his Companions 
in Arms. 

Soldiers, — The enemy, numbering only 2500 regular troops, 
the remainder being only a band of adventurers without valour or 
discipHne, are, according to reliable information, about advancing 
upon Serralvo, to commit the barbarity of attacking this most im- 
portant place. We count near 3000 regulars and auxihary ca- 
valry, and these will defeat them again and again, before they can 
reach this city. Soldiers, we are constructing fortifications, to 
make our base of operations secure, and hence we will sally forth 
at a convenient time, and drive back this enemy at the point of the 
bayonet. 

Soldiers ! three great virtues make the soldier worthy of his 
profession : discipline, constancy under fatigue, and valour. He 
w^ho at this moment would desert his colours, is a coward, and a 
traitor to his country. Our whole nation, and even foreign coun- 
tries, are the witnesses of our conduct. The question now is, w-he- 
ther our independence shall be preserved or for ever lost ; and its 
solution is in your hands. 

I have assured the supreme government of the triumph of our 
arms, confiding in your loyalty and enthusiasm, and will prove to 
the whole world that we are worthy sons of the immortal Hidalgo, 
Morelo, Allende Iturbide, and so many other heroes who knew 
how to die combating for the independence of our cherished 
country. 

Soldiers ! victory or death must be our only device. 

Pedro de Ampudia. 

Head-quarters, Monterey, Sept. 14, 1846. 

From this, it would seem the defeat of our troops was confi- 
dently anticipated. The three thousand " regulars and auxiliary 
cavalry" he speaks of, are the gallant knights whom we drove 
from Ramos to Marin, with only forty men ! It is said that Am- 
pudia was the first to desert his colours, and shut himself in one of 
the cloisters of the Cathedral ; he therefore must feel himself a 
coward, and a traitor to his country. England must have been 
the "foreign countries" to which he alludes, no doubt, as she has 
suppHed Mexico with nearly all her arms and ammunition : much 
of her artillery was made at Liverpool, and her muskets bear the 
stamp of William IV. with the word " Tower" marked on the 
locks. 

The boastful assurance given on his part to the supreme go- 
vernment but illy compares with his proclamation, issued after the 
battle, and which we also subjoin. 



ampudia's account of the battle. 215 

The General Commanding the Arm,y of the North to the People 
of the three Departments. 

Fellow Citizens — Occupied before all things else in providing 
for the defence of the rights and integrity of the territory of our 
beloved Republic against the enemy that has invaded her soil, the 
Supreme Government thought proper to intrust to me the com- 
mand of the patriotic troops destined on the northern frontier to 
this holy purpose. I accepted, with enthusiasm, the post assigned 
me — (for the zeal with which I have ever defended the holy cause 
of the people is notorious to every one) — and in the beginning of 
the month assumed the direction of such means as were in my 
power to repel the advance of the enemy. But fearing that the 
charge would prove too great for my feeble abihties, I solicited the 
worthy and most excellent Sefior Gen. Don Juan Neponuceno 
Almonte to come and relieve me from the command of the army, 
presuming that the illustrious conqueror of Panuco would on his 
return to Mexico resume the reins of our National Government. 

On the 19th inst., the enemy having appeared in the vicinity 
of Monterey and encamped in the San Domingo woods — their 
camp being one league in length and three leagues in circum- 
ference. I ordered their movements to be carefully observed, and 
hostilities to be commenced forthwith; the generals and other 
officers, who were under my command, of every branch of the 
service, being all decided to risk a combat rather than retreat. 

The redoubts of the citadel and of the new cathedral opened 
their fires the same day upon the enemy, who were occupied 
during that and the succeeding day in reconnoitering and pre- 
paring for the attack. 

On the 21st, the assault was made by a formidable body of their 
troops, chiefly of the regular army, upon the bridge of the Purisina 
and our redoubts of the Teneria and Rincon del Diablo, but they 
were gloriously driven back by our valiant veterans, with a posi- 
tive loss to our adversaries of fifteen hundred men. 

On the morning of the 22d, Gen. Taylor directed his columns 
of attack against the Bishop's Hill, an elevation commanding the 
city, and although in their first advance they were repulsed in a 
skirmish, a full brigade of regular troops returned to the charge. 
Unfortunately, two pieces of cannon and a mortar, which defended 
the position, got out of order and became useless, and, although 
as soon as advised of it, I sent a reinforcement of infantry, with 
two pieces of light-artillery, to their aid ; it reached the hill too 
late — the enemy had already succeeded in obtaining possession 
of the castle. 

This accident compelled me to concentrate my force in the 
Plaza, in order to present to the foe a more vigorous defence, and 



216 DESCRIPTION OF MONTEREY. 

to repel on the 23d, as was done, the assaults made by them 
through the streets and houses of the city. But, as under these 
circumstances, I suffered great scarcity of ammunition and provi- 
sions, and in spite of the ardour with which the entire army, both 
regulars and auxiliaries, were animated, I proposed to the Ameri- 
can general a parley, which resulted in an understanding by 
which the honour of the nation and the army, the personnel of the 
division under my command, its arms and equipments were pre- 
served. 

This is a true statement of the operations of the campaign up to 
the 24th inst., and if an inadequate supply of means and other 
circumstances have led to this result, we have yet no cause for a 
moment's dismay, for the Republic will now put forward all her 
elements of greatness ; and with one single victory, which we 
may, shall, and must obtain, will solve the problem definitively in 
favour of our arms. 

People of the East, the event which occurred at Monterey is of 
little moment. The favorite general of the Mexicans, the worthy 
and most excellent Sefior Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, will 
promptly take charge, in person, of the direction of the campaign ; 
let the sacred fire of patriotism continue to burn in our bosoms, 
and without fail we will triumph over our enemies. 

Pedro de Ampudia. 

Head-quarters, Saltillo, 29th Sept. 1846. 



CHAPTER XXI. 

The Morning of the 26th — Description of the City of Monterey — Sefior Gaja — 
The School — Seiior Serraiio's House — Anecdote — The Cathedral — The Val- 
ley of Monterey — Mr. Poinsett's description of the Country from Monterey 
to Tampico — The Ladies of Monterey — Sefiora Cueller and her Daughter — 
A Romantic Story — The City at Night — Riley, the Deserter— Orders of 
Taylor and Worth — The Prospect of Peace — Texas Rangers Disbanded — 
Description of the Bishop's Palace — The wounded Mexicans — View from 
the Palace — Mass at the Cathedral — Death of Father Rey— Preparations to 
leave for Comargo. 

Saturday, the 26th of September, was a beautiful, clear, cool 
morning, and being off duty, we enjoyed ourself roaming about the 
city. The principal street is Calle de Monterey, which runs from 
the Obis Fado, or Bishop's Palace, through the heart of the city, 
forming the south-west side of the Plaza. On this street is situ- 
ated the magnificent hacienda, or country seat, of Gen. Arista. 
The house is a very beautiful white building, adorned with red 
about the columns and cornices. The halJs and rooms are very 



THE SCHOOL OF SENOR GAJA. 217 

large and spacious, with high ceilings. The garden was lined 
with groves of orange trees, loaded with this delicious fruit, and 
laid out in flower beds, with beautiful pebbled paths between ; 
while on each side were baths of running crystal water, with vari- 
ous little ornaments placed here and there, making the whole a 
most delightful spot to spend a summer in. As you proceed, 
you come next to the first Plaza, on the right of which stands the 
ruins of an old church and cemetery, where the bomb battery was 
planted, and which, from having been fortified, and noAv occupied 
by our troops, has the appearance of an arsenal. Proceeding on 
some distance, you arrive at the Plaza de Came, which has a 
fountain in its centre. Here the business part of the city com- 
mences, and on the left, or north-east side of this Plaza is Calle de 
Mier, another very fine street, and on which are some of the hand- 
somest buildings. On this street is the Institution or College of 
Sen. Don Jose M. Gaja y Bayona, a gentleman from old Spain, 
who had opened a very extensive school here for the education of 
the Mexicans. Sen. Gaja is a gentleman of the old Castilian race ; 
he is a great philanthropist, and very enthusiastic ; and, as he 
informed us, was once very rich. He had travelled through Eu- 
rope and the United States. He was laudably employed, devoting 
his life to educating the descendants of his own once proud race. 
We became quite delighted with Sen. Gaja, who took great pains 
to explain the system of his school, and to extend to us the hospi- 
talities of his house. Before the battle, he had some thirty or forty 
boarding scholars, from different sections of the country, boys and 
girls. His boys, several of whom still remained with him, were 
all neatly dressed in uniform — blue cloth caps, hght blue jackets, 
and white pants. He had two professors employed in the sciences, 
and who also taught the French and English languages. 

Here we were introduced to Sen. Eugenio Serrano, a very 
wealthy Spanish merchant, residing on the other side of this street, 
whose "kind invitation to dine at his house we accepted. His house 
was splendidly furnished, and the walls hung with beautiful tapes- 
try. The service was of silver. We were presented to his two 
sons on sitting down to table, who were the only members of his 
family present, his lady and daughter being in the country. We 
found our host very intelligent, and a gentleman of liberal and en- 
larged views. He informed me that notwithstanding he was a 
I citizen of Spain, and had a passport from Her Cathohc Majesty, 
I Ampudia had demanded a large sum of money from him to sup- 
I port the war, to which he objected, and claimed the protection of 
the Spanish consul, and remonstrated against the unjust demand. 
" But," said Ampudia, " your hat is Mexican, your clothes are 
Mexican, your shoes are Mexican, and you live in a Mexican 

19 



218 THE CATHEDRAL. 

house ; and owning your house, you must be a Mexican." " And 
so," said our host, " I was forced to pay the scoundrel the sum he 
demanded." 

To the right of Monterey street, towards the river, and running 
parallel with it, is Calle de Morelos^ in which street Gen. Worth 
had taken up his head-quarters, near the house of the Spanish 
consul. Turning to the right by a narrow street, you enter the 
main Plaza of the city, wherein the Cathedral is situated. This 
Plaza is surrounded by stores of all kinds, with restaurants, billiard 
rooms, and coffee houses. On entering the Cathedral, we found 
it filled with ammunition ; the pews had all been removed, and boxes 
of cartridges, barrels of gunpowder, bomb-shells, cannon-balls, can- 
ister and grape shot, lay in piles and heaps. The interior of the 
church is very large and spacious, with a high, arched ceihng, or- 
namented with fine old oil paintings, carvings representing the 
Apostles, &c., and many images of the Saints. While looking at 
a painting of a very fine head of some priest of olden time, one of 
the reverend fathers approached us, and said that it was executed 
by one of the old maestros of Spain, and that all the paintings had 
been brought from that country. He then accompanied us through 
the church, which he said had been built more than two hundred 
years, and showed us their patron saint, magnificently embroidered 
on white velvet, ornamented with gold, which had been worked 
by the nuns of some convent. 

Walking out into the court-yard, to visit several small buildings 
attached to the church, we passed through a massive gateway-* 
when the priest pointed to the side of the wall, which was bespat-M | 
tered with blood and cartilages, and said that one of our shells had ' 
bursted there, killing' several officers and two sentries. At the 
same time he showed us the room of a very strong building, in 
which, he said, Ampudia had taken refuge on the night of the 
23d. In the small buildings were the priest's robes, the records 
of the church, and immense large wooden coflfers, which were 
once well filled, but as the holy man assured us, were now entirely 
empty. 

The valley of Monterey is not only most beautiful in point of 
scenery, but as rich a country as we ever saw, producing corn and 
sugar unsurpassed, and oranges, figs, grapes, and other fruits in 
abundance. The wines expressed from the grape here, are also 
very fine. The following extract from an article in the New Or- 
leans Commercial Review, written by the Hon. Mr. Poinsett, for- 
merly Secretary of War, and Minister to Mexico, is descriptive of 
the country between Monterey and Tampico : 

" Monterey, said to contain 15,000 inhabitants, Linares, which, 
counts about 6,000, and Saltillo, now called Leona Vicario, after 



MR. Poinsett's description of the country. 219 

the heroic consort of Quintani Roo, containing 12,000 souls, are 
towns pleasantly situated in the Sierra Madre, and not far from 
each other. Here the valleys are fruitful and provisions abun- 
dant for the existing population. There is no want of cattle, 
sheep, and goats, in this part of Mexico, and the country between 
Monterey and Zacatecas abounds in flocks and herds. The latter 
is a mining district, and the capital, situated at the foot of an ab- 
rupt and porphyritic mountain, boasts of a noble cathedral, a 
magnificent town hall, and the best mint in Mexico. Its popula- 
tion is computed at 22,000 souls, and three of the most productive 
mines are situated in its neighbourhood. They are all worked, 
we believe, by EngHsh companies. 

" The successful mining operations of Zacatecas, as is the case 
in all the great mining districts of Mexico, have given a great 
impulse to the agriculture of the surrounding country. Like 
other extensive manufactories, they bring together a numerous 
population, and create a demand for the products of the soil. 
The character of this population, the miners of Mexico, who, with 
their families, wander about the country, and settle themselves 
down to work wherever they can obtain the highest remunera- 
tion, is very singular, and would require a separate essay to do 
justice to the subject. But wherever they congregate together in* 
large numbers, as in Zacatecas and Guanajuato, they create a 
market for the fruits of the earth. South of Zacatecas is the fer- 
tile and well-cultivated district of Aguas Cahentes, which is said 
to produce one-fourth of the Indian corn and one-third of the beans 
and pepper consumed in the state. The lands north and east of 
Aguas Cahentes are divided into large breeding farms, where the 
population is thinly scattered over an immense tract of country. 
The next town of importance is San Luis Potosi, capital of the 
state of that name. It is surrounded by a well cultivated coun- 
try, gardens, and villages, which may be considered suburbs of 
the town, and swell the population to between 50 and 60,000, 
the town itself containing about 20,000. 

" The governor's house is a sohd edifice of cut stone, ornament- 
ed with Ionic pilasters — the design and execution very creditable. 
All the principal streets, which are very neat and clean, are built 
up with stone houses of two stories, but, like the capital, the suburbs 
consist of low small houses of aclabes, or unburnt brick. There is 
in this place a spacious convent of the wealthy order of Carmelites. 
San Luis is an important commercial city, from its position in 
relation to the port of Tampico and the interior states and pro- 
vinces. Zacatecas, Durango, and other northern and western 
states, receive a large portion of their foreign exports through that 
channel. 



220 

" A sketch of the route from this part of the table land to the 
sea-coast, will give our readers some idea of the difficulties that 
attend all communication between this elevated region and the 
ports of entry on the gulf. The country between San Luis and 
Tula, which is reached on the fourth day, is, for the most part, an 
arid tract — at least it appears so in the dry season — strewed with 
masses of hmestone. It is very deficient in wood and water, but 
a large proportion of it is used for grazing. It was here we saw 
the shepherds roasting the cactus leaves to feed the cattle ; and 
here we saw two men drawing water from a well in a singular 
manner. One man was harnessed to a rope as long as the depth 
of the well, which was suspended by a pulley, and raised the 
bucket of water by running the length of his tether, while the 
other guided the rope and emptied the water into a cistern where 
the cattle drank. This is their daily task from October to June ; 
during the rest of the season there is no want of pasture or water. 
Near the mountain of Norla, the face of the country assumes a dif- 
ferent aspect, and the road passes through deep woods which ex- 
tend to the summit of this spire of the Sierra. For a considerable 
distance the road, only practicable for mules in single file, is knee 
deep in fine dust. From Norla, it descends, by a circuitous route, 
to the plain, at the extremity of which is Tula, a small and incon- 
siderable town, remarkable, chiefly, for being situated on the verge 
of that arid tract of country which extends, with little intermission, 
to San Luis. On leaving Tula, the face of nature is changed. The 
road, from being dry and dusty, and running among cactus and 
yucca plants, winds through a fruitful valley cultivated in corn, 
beans, and pepper, and dotted over with neat farm-houses. A few 
hours' ride over this fine country brings the traveller to the mountain 
of Gallos, the first broad step in the ladder of descent from the table- 
land to the level of the coast. The path is craggy and steep, and 
the descent occupies about an hour and a half. A few leagues far- 
ther on is the Contadera, which is longer and much more precipitous. 
This descent terminates in the warm region ' Tierra Templada.' 

" The valleys here are fertile, and cultivated in corn, pumpkins, 
beans, and pepper, and the Indian villages are seen embossed ii^ 
orange groves. The third descent is called the Chamal, and thef 
last, the Cucharas, the shortest, but most precipitous, brings the 
travellers on a level with the coast, the ' Tierra Cahente.' Near 
the Cucharras he fords the river Lemon, a rapid stream, generally 
reaching to the saddle-girths. From this river it is three days* 
easy ride to the wretched town of Altamira, though rather an arid 
country, divided into cattle-farms. A few hours' row down a 
small stream, and across a deep basin where the shipping he, 
lands him at Tampico. The river Panuco, which heads not far 



A ROMANTIC STORY. 221 

from San Luis, is navigable for a short distance above Tampico, 
for boats of light draught, and there is another route passing near 
to it called the valle de Maiz. But the aspect of the country is 
similar to that described, and the same precipitous mountains have 
to be overcome on both routes." 

The principal trade of Monterey is derived from Tampico and 
Matamoras, and is mostly carried on by English merchants. The 
society is very good, the higher orders being refined and educated. 
What few young ladies we saw appeared quite intelhgent, were 
very pretty, and dressed in good taste, after the European fashion. 
Music and embroidery are their principal accomphshments, in the 
latter they particularly excel. They have fine pianos, and the one 
we saw came from the United States, but their favourite instru- 
ment is the guitar. From a beautiful blue enamelled visiting 
card, which we accidentally found after the battle, we would 
also infer that they have some pretensions to fashionable life. 
" Ramon de la Gerza Floris^^ was the name on the card, with 
"1/ su esposa'^ written beneath — signifying, and his lady — which 
we think far preferable to our way of Mr. and Mrs, Jones, 
We saw one or two carriages, which looked as if they had been 
kept as relics of the days of Philip II. of Spain, for more ungainly, 
heavy, and cumbersome vehicles we never saw. They were 
drawn by six mules, driven by a postilion. 

In the evening, at Senor Gaja's house, we were introduced to 
Senora Cueller, who was travelling with her son and daughter to 
Monclova ; the latter she was bringing home from a convent in 
one of the neighbouring states, on account of the existing war. 
In passing through the city, Ampudia had stopped them and 
pressed their horses and pack-mules into the service, when the 
senora was forced to seek the protection of Sen. Gaja until after 
the battle. 

Several days afterwards, on inquiring after these ladies, we 
were told the following bit of romance by our Spanish friend. 

"The young lady," said Sen. Gaja, "whose name was Isabel, 
was sitting one afternoon by the window, admiring the beautiful 
sunset, whose bright hues were gradually fading from the moun- 
tain scenery ; and as she sat with her head slightly turned 
towards the scene, leaning on her hand, and her elbow resting on 
the casement, with one side of her beautifully curved neck turned 
to the view, while the other was covered with a profusion of jetty 
ringlets, which fell gracefully on her shoulder, I thought," said 
he, " I had never beheld so fair a picture. She had not.seen over 
eighteen summers, and was of the medium height, with a beauti- 
fully rounded form. Her eyes were full of soul and melting ten- 
derness, of that dark and briUiant hue- which is so expressive 

19* 



222 RILEY, THE DESERTER. 

among our race, and with a face beaming with beauty and love- 
liness. 

" At this time a young Mexican officer, a captain of cavalry, 
passed by and recognised the fair SeTwrita^ when quite a scene 
took place, which drew the attention of the mother to the window. 
On her approach, the cavaher gracefully bowed, but met with a 
cold and repulsive reception from the Senora, which caused our 
gallant captain immediately to retire. 

" The mystery of this affair," said our friend, " was cleared up 
on the following morning, when it was discovered that the young 
lady had been carried off by her lover, and escaped with him in 
disguise, while the troops were marching out of the city." 

It appeared that, some years ago, the gallant cavalier had de- 
manded the hand of his lady-love in marriage ; but being refused 
by the mother, and the young lady sent to a convent, our hero, in 
despair, entered the army, where he soon distinguished himself 
by his valour. After the battle, to his great joy and surprise, he 
accidentally met the object of his love as we have seen, and meet- 
ing with the repulse from the mother, who at once recognised him, 
he determined to fly with his affianced bride. 

The city, at night, presented a most strange appearance ; the 
streets were patrolled by our soldiers — horsemen were dashing to 
and fro — men and officers were seen standing in groups around 
the doors of houses, from whom was heard the merry laugh of 
revelry, which singularly contrasted with the stern camp of the 
soldier but a few nights before. 

The next day, another division of this Mexican army marched 
out, in which there were several deserters from our ranks, who, 
as they passed through our lines, received a volley of hoots, 
shouts, groans, and imprecations that made them wince, and 
shrink almost to the earth. "One in particular, a worthless 
scoundrel, named Riley — who had deserted from Capt. Merrill's 
company, of the 5th Infantry — received a passing salute from his 
old comrades, as he went out of the city, which he will not forget 
in a twelvemonth. He had deserted from near Matamoras early 
in the spring, had succeeded in reaching the Mexican lines, and 
was at once taken into the artillery, and made captain of a gun. 
He was a tall, stalwart fellow, yet utterly worthless — a noisy, 
quarrelsome, yet cowardly wretch — and his riddance from the 
company was even matter of rejoicing rather than regret." 

" Seated upon the first gun as its captain," says Mr. Kendall, 
" came the renegade Riley. The deserter was ill at ease, not- 
withstanding his comfortable seat, as the column passed through 
the thoroughfares which were lined with the Americans ; but it 
was not until his eye caught some of his old comrades, that the 



ORDERS OF GENERAL TAYLOR. 223 

spirit of the wretch died within him. The company knew that 
he was to pass out, and had stationed themselves near a barricade, 
opposite the quarters then occupied by Col. Duncan, as the best 
position from whence to give him a broadside of reproaches. 
* Riley, ye desartin' thafe, ainH ye ashamed of yerself ?' said one 
of his former messmates, an Irishman, and one of the best soldiers 
in the company. The colour entirely forsook the face of the run- 
away. ' Whin ye desarted, why didn't ye go among dacent white 
people, and not be helpin' these bloody nagers pack off their var- 
min V continued the speaker, his comrades keeping up a running 
accompaniment of groans and hisses. This was too much. Riley 
jumped from the gun, every limb trembhng with abject fear, and 
as he passed through the barricade, the wretch supported his tot- 
tering knees by placing a hand on the revolving wheels of the 
carriage. Not until the barricade was passed, and he was out of 
hearing of his former comrades, did he remount his gun ; and 
even then, so utterly prostrate were all his faculties, he had barely 
strength to clamber upon the carriage. Such was one of the scenes 
we witnessed at the evacuation of Monterey by the Mexicans. 
Other deserters were in the ranks of the enemy — runaway negroes 
as well — but not one of them was as well known as was the traitor 
Riley, not one of them received such a bhghting shower of con- 
tempt, such a withering tornado of scorn." 

At evening parade, the following orders from Gen. Taylor were 
read to the army, and on the 28th, those of Gen. Worth were pub- 
lished to his division. 

[Orders, No. 123.] 

Head-quarters, Army of Occupation, 

Camp near Mojiterey, Sept. 27, 1846. 

The commanding general has the satisfaction to congratulate 
the army under his command upon another signal triumph over 
the Mexican forces. Superior to us in numbers, strongly forti- 
fied, and with an immense preponderance of artillery, they have 
yet been driven from point to point, until forced to sue for terms 
of capitulation. Such terms have been granted as were consi- 
dered due to the gallant defence of the town, and to the liberal 
poHcy of our own government. 

The general begs to return his thanks to his commanders, and 
to all his officers and men, both of the regular and volunteer 
forces, for the skill, the courage, and the perseverance with which 
they have overcome manifold difficulties, and finally achieved a 
victory shedding lustre upon the American arms. 

A great result has been obtained, but not without the loss of 
many gallant and accompHshed officers and brave men. The 
army and the country will deeply sympathize with the famihes 



224 ORDERS OF GENERAL WORTH. 

and friends of those who have thus sealed their devotion with their 
lives. By order of Maj. Gen. Taylor: 

(Signed) W. W. S. Bliss, Ass't Mft Gen. 

Official : Geo. A. McCall, Ass't Adft Gen. 

[Orders, No. 39.] 

Head- QUARTERS, Second Division, 

Monterey, Sept. 28, 1846. 

The commanding general of division seizes the first instant of 
leisure, to tender to the officers and soldiers of his command the 
expression of his thanks and admiration. During the three days* 
operations, and down to the final capitulation of this important po- 
sition, until after they have seen nearly twice their numhers defile 
before them in retreat — whether on the fatiguing march, in com- 
bat in the valley, or on the mountains, on the house-tops or in the 
streets, this noble division has given an exhibition of courage, con- 
stancy, and discipHne above all praise, and a generous and manly 
forbearance towards fallen and humiliated foes, which bear com- 
parison with the proudest achievements that grace the annals of 
their country. 

The general feels assured that every individual in the command 
unites with him in admiration of the distinguished gallantry an^* 
conduct of Col. Hays, and his noble band of Texian volunteers — 
hereafter they and we are brothers, and we can desire no better 
guarantee of success than by their association. 

To Brigadier General Smith, commanding Second Brigade; 
Lieut. Col. Staniford, First Brigade ; Lieut. Col. Childs, Artillery 
battaKon ; Major Scott, 5th Infantry ; Capt. Miles, 7th Infantry ; 
Capt. Smith, 2d Artillery, commanding light troops ; Capt. Scre- 
ven, 8th Infantry; to Capt. Blanchard, Louisiana volunteers; 
Lieut. Col. Duncan, and Lieut. Mackall, he tenders all his thanks 
and respect. To the gentlemen of the staff. Major Munroe, chief 
of artillery ; Capt. Sanders, miHtary engineer ; Lieut. Deas, di- 
vision quartermaster ; Lieut. Daniels, division commissariat ; Lieut. 
Meade, topographical engineers ; Lieuts. Pemberton and Wood, 
aids-de-camp, his special thanks are due, for the alacrity, zeal, and 
gallantry with which they have performed every service. To 
Col. Peyton, Louisiana volunteers, who did him the honour to 
tender his very acceptable services as aid-de-camp, he feels under 
especial obligations for his valuable counsel and splendid exhibi- 
tion of courage. 

To the general himself, the highest and proudest gratification 
is, that such fortunate results have been attained with compara- 
tively so small sacrifice of the precious blood of the soldier. 
By order of Brig. Gen. Worth : 

J. C. Pemberton, First-lieutenant and Aid-de-Camp. 



;|ff![|f|;i|f(fijj|!|ji;'|i|f'l'';';'i 



W .' 




PALACE. 225 

The storm of war had lulled into a calm, and it was beheved 
that a speedy peace would ensue to perpetuate it. Ampudia had 
given assurances that official information had been received, that 
commissioners on the part of the two governments were treating 
for peace. It was known that a late change had taken place in 
the Mexican government — that Santa Anna had returned, who 
was supposed to be in favour of the negotiation, and consequently 
an armistice of eight weeks was granted to the enemy, to give 
time to hear from both governments. 

On the 30th, the Texians were mustered out of service, and 
the two reofiments disbanded. For this purpose, we rode over 
to GeneralTaylor's camp. The joyous laugh and merry joke 
once more rang through our ranks, as we had saddled up for our 
last scout, and all was buoyancy and exhilaration of spirit, at the 
prospect of once more returning to our happy homes. The next 
day, a large quantity of cigars and tobacco, which was among the 
public property surrendered to us in the capitulation, was distri- 
buted to the officers and soldiers. 

Being freed from the duties which were necessarily imposed on 
the hfe of a Ranger or Texas Dragoon, as Gen. Worth had lately 
christened our corps, we spent the remaining few days in strolling 
about and visiting our friends, until a party should be made up in 
sufficient numbers to return to Comargo. 

We had been riding over the city one day, visiting the different 
works and fortifications, and viewing the surrounding scenery, 
when we found ourself once more at the Bishop's Palace. This 
building, which we have not yet described, had been built some 
fifty years ago, as a residence for the bishop of the diocese, who 
had selected the position on account of its romantic and beautiful 
site. It is said to have been once very splendid, but by neglect 
has fallen to decay. The walls of the main building alone were 
standing, with a parterre in front, and a high flight of stone steps 
leading to the grand entrance, from which could be seen traces 
of its former magnificence ; the fortifications around, lately made 
by the Mexicans, gave it the appearance of some old feudal castle. 
In the adjoining wings, were large and spacious rooms, and in 
the rear were the remains of a once fine garden, where now stood 
several of our hospital tents, containing a number of Mexicans 
who had been wounded at the storming of the palace. We looked 
in upon the poor creatures who were writhing in agony, and 
shrieking and groaning with pain. It was a horrid sight, and 
even in their torture, as we gazed upon them, there seemed to 
glisten from their eyes a glare of hate which lit up their ghastly 
features with a terrible expression. 

Turning from the dreadful scene, we regained the high steps 



226 VIEW FROM THE PALACE. 

of the palace, from which a view of beauty and grandeur lay- 
spread before us. Below, was the city with its lofty steeples, its 
beautiful white houses and lovely gardens, with the Monte Sillo, 
or saddle mountain on the right, (which takes its name from two 
peaks of the mountain, forming the shape of a saddle,) at whose 
base murmured the hmpid stream of the rapid San Juan, with its 
pebbled and rocky shores, while far to the left rose the high peaks 
of the Sierra del Madre, towering to the vault of heaven. To 
the east, lay the lovely green valley with its fields and woods, 
before so beauteous, now sad to look upon from the dread carnage 
of the late battle. Off to the west, were the mountain heights 
that had been stormed by the soldiers of Worth's division, whose 
ascent even now, uncovered by the panoply of war, seemed a feat 
of no slight undertaking. Farther on, the Saltillo road wound 
itself along a chain of hills, dotted here and there with, jacales 
and ranchos, as far as the eye could reach, until it lost itself into 
a broad plain. The summit of these mountains lit up with the 
golden hues of the retiring sun, with the tall spires of the city, 
and the green vales softened by the rich crimson hght, appeared 
in beautiful relief, with the dark rocky glens and sombre chapar- 
ral. It was a most lovely and tranquil scene — no longer were 
heard the loud huzzas, the thundering peals of artillery, the rat- 
tling musketry, which made the mountains tremble at their base, 
but all seemed as calm as if nature's repose had never been dis- 
turbed by the unhallowed strife of war. 

On Sunday, the 4th of October, divine service was performed 
in the Cathedral, which had been put in order for the occasion, by 
Father Rey and his companion, the two Catholic chaplains who 
were attached to our army. The Mexicans attended, and waited 
until the forms and ceremonies of mass were over, when the most 
of them left, not caring to hsten to the eloquence of a sermon 
which they did not understand. 

Some months afterwards. Father Rey was killed by a party of 
Mexican Lancers between Comargo and Monterey. In reference 
to this cold-blooded act, the Matamoras Flag says : " What igno- 
rance, combined with fanaticism, will do, may be judged by the 
butchering of this faithful old minister of peace. True to his di- 
vine calling, he forsook friends and home, to make easy the couch 
of the dying soldiers. He came with no design of harm to either 
the Mexicans or Americans ; and was arrested in his divine voca- 
tion by those who worship in the same mode the same Almighty." 

A train was to leave the next day for Comargo, under escort of 
Capt. Shiver's company, and a small party of Texas Rangers. 
Col. Belnap had also been ordered down to bring up the long 
eighteen pounders, likewise several parks of artillery, and to has- 



MARIN. 227 

ten up a large quantity of supplies that had lately arrived, and we 
determined with a party of others to go down under its protection. 
In the afternoon we called upon Gen. Taylor to take our leave 
of the gallant veteran, who received us very cordially, and with 
his characteristic kindness. The evening was spent with our 
friends of the 3d Regiment. 



CHAPTER XXII. 

Departure for Comargo — Marin — Arrival at Serralvo — Incidents of Travel — 
Mexican Customs — A Camp Scene — Arrival at Punta Aguda — Alarming 
rencounter — Arrival at Mier — Sefior Don Domingo and his Daughters — 
Scene at Mier — Arrival at Guardado — A Mexican Dinner — Arrival at Mata- 
moras — Change in the Place — Arrival at the Brazos — Departure for New 
Orleans — We put into Galveston — Description of the City — Arrival at New 
Orleans — McCuUoch's return home — Incidents of the Road — The Stam- 
pede-rScout to Rancho Encarnacion — Charge on the Enemy's Picket — 
The Return — The Second Scout. — Daring Feat — Discovery of Santa Anna's 
Army — McCuUoch's Escape from the Camp of the Enemy — Arrival at 
Agua Nueva — The Battle of Buena Vista — The Conclusion. 

On the morning of the 5th, the train was ready, and having 
bade our friends " good bye," we were soon on the road to Co- 
margo. Passing through San Francisco, we arrived at 3, p. m., at 
Marin, and called on the old couple who had prepared the dinner 
for the Mexican officers, at the time our sudden approach deprived 
them of the dinner in question, and which our readers may recol- 
lect our officers eat for them. A great change had taken place 
since we passed through the town, which now looked desolate, 
ruined and deserted. The old people received us very kindly, 
and looked astonished to think we had escaped, as they said they 
heard that half of the Americans were killed. Here, we and our 

friend M made a hearty meal of beef, tortillas, pepper sauce 

and eggs. We then rode on for three miles where the train en- 
camped for the night. Each Httle party formed a mess of its own, 
and the different groups sitting around their suppers, made up a 
novel and grotesque scene. 

The train started the next morning at sunrise, passed through 
Ramos, which we also found deserted, with the exception of one 
or two jacales, in which the women ran to hide themselves. On 
reaching Papagayo, where we made a retrograde movement on a 
memorable occasion, we found the miserable place perfectly lonely 
and abandoned. The day was very warm, and here we rested 
until the wagon train came up, when we pushed on again until 
we arrived at our old camp ground, near the beautiful stream that 
watered its banks, thirteen miles from Serralvo, but which we 



228 ARRIVAL AT SERRALVO. 

found had become completely dry. Farther down the branch, how- 
ever, we found some cool springs gushing from the rock, and a fine 
hole of water, which were very grateful to us. It was determined 
to camp the train here for the night. After resting for a while, we 
found the prospect for a supper very poor, and ascertaining that 
a small party had gone on to Serralvo, we pushed on also in com- 
pany with two or three more, and by hard riding reached the 
town soon after sundown. We went to the alcalde's house, but 
found that he had gone to the country, so we called on his brother, 
where we found the party that we had been trying to overtake, 
and who had secured quarters there for the night. As they could 
not give us accommodations, the alcalde's brother offered to show 
us where we could obtain quarters, and led us to a miserable 
place where he said we could stay in safety for the night, that 
was, to sleep in an open yard on a raw-hide. We declined this 
offer, and meeting with a Mexican we had known before, he took 
us to the house of Don Manuel Maren, who kept a grocery, 
where we obtained a good supper and bed. There was no gate- 
way to the yard, so they led our horse through the house, as we 
requested, for safety. The old woman was very cross and ugly, 
and wanted us to sleep in the yard on a hide, which we under- 
stood was the usual accommodation given to strangers, it present- 
ing, we suppose, the most favourable opportunity for robbing 
them. After a family discussion on the subject, they decided 
that as we were to pay them well, we should sleep in the house. 
Giving them to understand that the train would be up in the 
morning, and that if any harm should happen to us, they would 
be the sufferers, we retired, placing our arms under our pillow. 
For an hour we heard much whispering, and then a movement in 
the next room to us, but fatigue overcoming our fears, we soon 
fell into a sound slumber. 

The morning of the 7th was clear and pleasant, we awoke re- 
freshed, and found all right. Not so, however, with the party at, 
the alcalde's brother, who slept in the yard, and were robbed dur-J j 
ing the night of all their fire-arms, which were taken from under* 
their heads. The train did not come up until 11, a. m., mean- 
while we took a stroll about the town, and met our old friends 
Juan de Vila and his wife, who embraced us, and seemed over- 
joyed at our return. This is a custom of the Mexicans, who 
always embrace their friends after an absence. The Senora 
pressed us to stay to dinner, which invitation we accepted, as the 
command was not to move until 2, p. m., on account of the heat of 
the weather. After a hearty meal we were offered some cigar- 
ritos, and a cushion was placed on a mat for us to take a siesta. 
In the afternoon the train moved on and encamped before dark 



)l 



INCIDENTS OF TRAVEL. 229 

near a little creek. A camp guard was posted, and from the dif- 
ferent groups a loud laugh would occasionally be heard at some 
story being told by one of the mess — when at tattoo they retired. 
The weather continued very warm, and the teams travelled 
very slowly. We met detachments of troops scattered along the 
road, on their way up to reinforce Gen. Taylor. At 11, a. m., we 
arrived at Punta Aguda ; this place too had much changed, and as we 
passed through it, we thought of the scene of the fandango which 
we described in one of our scouts, but could see no face that we 
knew. We kept on until about 5, p. m., when we came to another 
old camping ground, about twelve miles from Mier. Here the 
command again halted for the night. Provisions had run very 
low, and being told that a party had just started for Mier, we rode 
on to overtake them. The road from this to Mier lies over a 
rolling barren waste, v/ith occasional high hills. Between Marin 
and Serralvo, we found the skeletons of one or two men who had 
been murdered by the rancheros, one of which was supposed to 
have been that of Dr. Alsbury, a suttler. This part of the road 
towards Mier was also said to be very dangerous. We had con- 
tinued on for about three miles, without seeing any thing of the 
party supposed to be ahead of us, when the sun which had set 
in the western sky, went down very red and angry, and the wind 
blew almost a gale. We continued on our lonely and dreary road, 
however, still hoping to overtake our comrades. 

Night had now come upon us. There was no moon, and the 
flying clouds in the heavens betokened a storm. Still, in the 
west, there hung a broad streak of light which rendered the road 
visible, though indistinct. On descending a long hill, we thought 
we discovered on the opposite ridge a party of men on foot, who 
seemed to creep out of the chaparral on the road-side, and then 
again conceal themselves. With the wind in our face, and whis- 
tling through the low, stumpy bushes that lined the road, we 
imagined that we could hear them talking in a low under-tone. 
The case was desperate ; so we prepared for the worst. Our 
horse had been ridden hard, and ourself much fatigued ; so there 
was no turning back, as we might be pursued and overtaken. Our 
double-barreled shot-gun was loaded with buckshot ; the only 
chance was to make a sure fire, and put our horse to his utmost 
speed. On ascending the hill, we thought of an old Texian ruse; 
so touching our horse with the spur, and waving our hat behind 
us, we gave a shout, as if calling on a large party in the rear, 
and dashed forward to where we supposed the enemy to he in 
ambush. On arriving at the spot, to our great surprise and relief, 
a large flock of turkey buzzards rose up with a loud flapping 
noise, which at once dispelled our fears, as we burst into a loud 

20 



230 AT MIER. 

laugh at the result of our expected terrible encounter. We rode 
on till we came to where some three or four roads, which had 
been made by the trains since we were last here, intercepted 
each other, when we became puzzled as to which road to take — 
knowing, however, that the town lay to the right of the main 
road, we shaped our course accordingly, judging that we could 
not be far off from it. We kept on until our horse made a dead 
halt, and refused to go under the influence of the spur, when we 
got down to examine what was the matter, and found we had been 
urging the animal over a deep ravine of about seventy feet deep. 
Convinced that we were lost, we prepared to camp until daylight ; 
so we spread our blanket and commenced unsaddling our horse, 
when the sound of the church-bell striking the hour was wafted 
to our ears by the breeze. Never did the most impassioned strains 
of music sound so sweetly to us ! Mounting our horse again, we 
followed the sound, and was soon before the walls of the town. 
Taking a guide, we presently found the house of our old Itahan 
friend Domingo Moricio, whose family received us with the 
warmest greetings. What was our surprise to find a party of 
Texians who had arrived here- in the early part of the day ! We 
had been misinformed as to the party which was supposed to have 
gone on ahead. After seeing our horse well fed, we partook of a 
fine supper, and related the adventures of our journey to our com- 
rades. Many a wild story followed, and, while in the height of our 
merriment, the soft notes of a guitar accompanied by the sweet 
voice of one of Don Domingo's daughters, produced a total 
silence, as the rich notes swelled upon the evening air. 

Friday, the 9th, was a beautiful morning, and the cool, balmy 
air was delicious. At sun-rise, we walked down to the river San 
Juan to water our horse. It was a lovely scene ; women and 
young girls were filling their water-jars ; one or two Mexicans 
were seen crossing the river on horses ; cattle and flocks of sheep 
and goats were seen grazing near by ; birds were singing their 
morning carols, and the waters rippled along with an enchanting 
murmur over their rocky bed — the whole making as sweet a 
landscape as one would wish to look upon. 

After a delightful breakfast, we bade our friends farewell, and, 
without waiting for the train to come up, started off with our 
comrades for Comargo. At 2, p. m., we arrived at our old 
camp-ground, Guardado, near the lake, where we stopped to get 
dinner at the house of a Mexican. Some boiled meat, with pep- 
per-sauce and tortillas, were soon prepared for us by a young 
ofirLand settinsf the dishes containinor the same near the door, and 

• 111 !• 

placing some cushions for us to sit on, we were told that our dm- 
ner was ready ; so using our fingers for knives and forks, we made a 



COMARGO MATAMORAS POINT ISABEL. 231 

hearty meal. At 6, p. m., we crossed the river and arrived once 
more at Comargo. Here we met a few friends ; but this place had 
also changed very much since we last camped here, and new 
faces had taken the place of old ones. All was stir and activity, 
and great excitement prevailed. 

The next morning the train arrived, and at 4, p. m., we took 
passage on the steamer Whitesville, Capt. Dunn, for the mouth of 
the Rio Grande. We had a pleasant party on board, and the 
time passed very agreeably. On Monday, the 12th, we stopped 
at a wood-pile, where we saw a natural curiosity in the shape of a 
white Mexican boy with red eyes ! On Tuesday, we arrived at 
Matamoras. Here, too, was another change ; the American me- 
chanic had taken the place of the Mexican ; new stores had been 
opened with large stocks of goods, and in coffee-houses and grog- 
shops were seen farro banks and all kinds of gambling games 
going on. Over a dingy-looking shanty, was a sign painted 
*^ Head-quarters of the Volunteers.''^ ^^Mush and Milk /" We 
had barely time to visit our friend, the old French baker, when 
the steamer's bell rang, and, bidding all good-bye, we reached the 
boat, and were once more on our way towards the mouth. We 
arrived the next day at 11, a. m. A boat was ready to leave for 
the Brazos ; but, as it was blowing a gale, and the breakers very 
heavy, she was detained. 

On the morning of the 15th, the wind having abated, we crossed 
the bar, and arrived at Brazos St. Jago at 10, a. m. Large ware- 
houses had been built since we were here last, and the place 
looked very lively to what it did when we were encamped on its 
sand-banks. Mr. and Mrs. Hart were here with a theatrical 
company, who, we were told, were drawing " crowded houses." 
The next day we visited Point Isabel, which we found very much 
improved — a fine hotel having been built, which was kept in 
good style. On the 19th, we took passage in the steam propeller 
" Florida," and at 4, p. m., got under way for New Orleans. 
It was blowing fresh at the time, and our pilot had some misgivings 
as to there being water enough to take us over the bar. The 
breakers ran very high, and we had to go through their midst. Our 
craft stood boldly out, as if determined to meet the danger with a 
fearless front. On she sped, now rising with a wave which seem- 
ingly the next moment would lower her to the very bottom. " Port ;" 
" starboard ;" " steady ;" were heard in quick succession from 
the pilot, when our craft struck with a violent shock, startling all 
on board and producing great excitement among the passengers. 
Again she rose majestically ; again she struck ; but not so se- 
verely. All sail and steam were now put upon her, and, having 
gained the middle of the breakers, she rose fearfully on a moun- 



232 MAj. Mcculloch and the Indians. 

tain wave, which fortunately carried her over the har. We stood 
off to the north-west, having a head wind, which lasted until we 
arrived at Galveston, at which port we put in on the 25th, being 
out of provisions, &c. 

Galveston is one of the most delightful places that we ever 
visited. The chaste beauty of its buildings, with the spires of its 
churches rising above the city, seemed to diffuse a happy influence 
about the place, making one feel as if he could wish to call it 
home. Here w^e met many kind friends, and the next evening 
attended a most delightful assembly, w^hich was greatly enhanced 
by the long privations and hardships to which we had been 
exposed. 

On the 27th, we left Galveston for New Orleans, on the steam- 
ship Palmetto, Capt. Lewis, w^here we arrived after a most delight- 
ful passage of two days, once more rejoiced to find ourselves in 
the city of our adopted home. 

We must now go back to follow Maj. McCuUoch, who had left 
Monterey, with sixteen of his men, for San Antonio, Texas. 
Having crossed the Nueces with some difhcuhy about mid-day, 
the party w-ere reclining upon the grass to rest themselves, when 
a couple of daring Comanches rushed in among the horses close 
by, and by their yells and accompanying antics succeeded in 
stampeding the entire cavallada, with the exception of Maj. 
McCulloch's horse and that of the brave Capt. Cheshire. These 
gentlemen mounted at once, and put off in pursuit. On coming 
up wath them, McCulloch received a flight of arrows, one of 
which wounded his horse and caused him to dismount. He and 
one of the Indians then commenced manoeuvring for advantages. 
McCulloch could not bring his five-shooter to bear. Meantime 
the other Indian, armed with a rifle, was creeping round trying to 
level it upon McCulloch ; but the major was too cunning to be 
caught even in a double-handed game. By this time Cheshire 
came up, when McCulloch proposed a charge. Cheshire, however, 
thinking it more prudent to try his rifle, fired ; but it did not tell. 

The manoeuvering continued — it Avas a sort of running fight. 
McCulloch charged up close enough to let loose his repeater ; two 
shots did no execution ; at the third it broke, and the Indian es- 
caped. Cheshire now fired and wounded his man ; the Indians 
retreated, leaving the horses. The Texians drove them back in 
triumph to the camp. In the interim, the foot company were in 
the utmost suspense, watching the prairie to catch a glimpse of 
their returning comrades ; and when they at last hove in sight 
with the horses safe and sound, the air was rent with huzzas. 
Never was there a more joyful crowd, for never did a set of gen- 
tlemen come neaiei footing it into ivhite settlements. 



Mcculloch's scout to encarnacion. 233 

Major McCulloch left Monterey with the understanding and by 
the request of Gen. Taylor, that in case hostilities should be com- 
menced, he was to return. No sooner had the terms of the ca- 
pitulation been signed, than the anchor of hope on which we had 
leaned for peace was found giving way under doubts, arising from 
a knowledge of the treacherous and deceitful character of our foe ; 
and we had hardly reached our homes before it was known that 
our government had ordered the armistice to terminate. 

On the 31st of January, Major McCulloch, with twenty-seven 
of his men, arrived at Monterey, and finding the army on the 
march to Saltillo, he continued on to that city, where he arrived 
on the 4th of February, and reported to Gen. Taylor. His com- 
pany was mustered into service for six months, with orders to re- 
main and recruit his horses until called upon. On the 15th of 
February, he was ordered to repair to Agua Nueva, eighteen miles 
distant, where Gen. Taylor had made his head-quarters, and who 
ordered him to make a reconnoissance as far as Encarnacion, a 
very large rancho, which was about thirty miles off, for the pur- 
pose of obtaining information in regard to the advance of Santa 
Anna's army. 

On the 16th, Major McCulloch, accompanied by sixteen of his 
picked men, with Capt. Howard, and Mr. T. L. Crittenden and 
Lieut. Clark, of the Kentucky Infantry, proceeded on this exciting 
scout. Nothing of interest took place until about 11, p. m., when 
they arrived within a mile of the town. Here they met with the 
enemy's picket, who fired a gun at them and retreated to a rancho. 
Not knowing the country, Major McCulloch was obliged to keep 
the road. The detachment was now formed so as to repel attack 
and to prevent surprise. The night was very dark. They con- 
tinued on cautiously feeling their way, when an obstacle pre- 
sented itself before them that seemed to prevent their farther ad- 
vance ; this was first taken for a brush fence across the road, but 
on arriving within thirty paces, they discovered it to be a squad of 
some twenty of the enemy's cavalry drawn up in battle array. 
The scouting party was immediately challenged with quien vive? 
and before an answer could be returned, they received the whole 
of the enemy's fire. Major McCulloch immediately gave the 
order to charge, which w^as done in gallant style ; the enemy's 
column wheeled, opening to the right and left, and retreated at a 
break-neck pace ; our men dashed after them, and so hotly did 
they continue the pursuit, that they were enabled to ascertain the 
probable strength of the enemy at Encarnacion, which was sup- 
posed to be about 1500 cavalry. The charge ordered by Major 
McCulloch might appear rash, if not reckless, when it is considered 
that he was entirely ignorant of the force that opposed his squad 

20* 



234 • DARING FEAT. 

of men. But his position was as critical as it was perilous, and 
in order to save his men, and prevent the enemy from charging 
him, he was forced to pursue the course he did. It was quick 
work, and there was no time for thought. The mianoeuvre suc- 
ceeded, and they came ofF without pursuit and v>^ithout loss. 
Having obtained the desired information, it was thought most pru- 
dent to return to Agua Nueva, as it was known that Gen. Miiion 
was in our rear, and the risk was very great of being cut off; ac- 
cordingly, the detachment fell back, and arrived the next day safe 
in camp, without further incident. 

On the 20th of February, McCulloch again received orders to 
proceed to Encarnacion, to gain farther intelligence relative to 
Santa Anna's advance. In scouting to an enemy's camp, though 
attended with extreme peril, it will readily be perceived that there 
is greater security with a few men, who can more easily effect an 
escape, than to go in force. The major, therefore, upon this occa- 
sion, took with him only four men, and his second-lieutenant, 
Fielding Alston, accompanied by Lieut. Clark, of the Kentucky 
Infantry. There was no water to be obtained upon the whole 
route ; consequently, the scouts did not start until 4, p. m., in order 
to travel in the cool of the day, as well as to cover their approach 
by the darkness of the night. 

About six miles from Agua Nueva, near our picket-guard, they 
met with a Mexican deserter, who stated that Santa Anna had ar- 
rived at Encarnacion, with 20,000 troops. The Mexicans had 
circulated so many rumors that little or no confidence was to be 
put in what they said. McCulloch ordered the guard to take the 
deserter to Gen. Taylor, and proceeded on his way with the squad. 
At sundown the party left the main road and turned off into the 
thick chaparral to conceal themselves, and only touched the road 
twice during the route, which was for the purpose of crossing it. 
About midnight they arrived in sight of Encarnacion, and found the 
Mexicans encamped in force. The mcon had just set, and it was 
quite dark. Continuing on, they stealthily moved along unper- 
ceived, passing inside of the enemj^'s picket, until they arrived 
close to the camp-guard of the Mexicans. Here a reconnoissance 
was made to ascertain the length of the encampment ; they then 
fell back about half a mile to feed their horses on some oats, 
which they had carried with them. Major McCulloch now con- 
cluded to send back Lieut. Alston and the rest of his little party, 
with the exception of one man, WiUiam Phillips, to report imme- 
diately to Gen. Taylor, the probable strength of the enemy, and 
to state that he would remain behind until daylight, for the purpose 
of obtaining a fuller view of the enemy's camp. 

The intrepid McCulloch was now kit with but one man. De- 



. i 



NARROW ESCAPE. 235 

termined to obtain the fullest information, they were again ap- 
proaching by another fork of the road, when they suddenly came 
in contact with the enemy's picket, who immediately pursued 
them. To be caught was certain death ; McCulloch and Phiihps, 
therefore, to elude them, and avoid the chase, boldly galloped down 
towards the enemy's camp, going within less than half a mile of 
their lines ! By this daring feat they escaped, the picket taking them 
for their own men trying to pass out ! Falling back to a hill about 
a mile distant, they concealed themselves until dayhght, when 
their horses were almost stampeded by the noise of the Mexicans' 
numerous trumpets and drums, with which they beat their reveille. 
At sunrise a heavy smoke settled down upon our scouts, caused 
by the green wood of the Mexican fires, which had now been ht, 
and there being no breeze to carry it away, McCulloch, although 
he had a fine glass with him, was prevented from seeing but little 
more than he had during the night. He then started on his return, 
and had not gone over one hundred yards when he discovered two 
picket-guards of twenty men each, in his advance. They were 
stationed about a quarter of a mile apart on the forks of the road 
which separated about eight miles, and again met at the rancho. 
McCulloch and Phillips were between the two roads, and were 
compelled to pass between the picket-guards on each side of them. 
Here they again had to run the gauntlet ; so holding down their 
guns by the side of their horses, that they might not be perceived 
by the pickets, they rode slowly and deliberately along, to induce 
the enemy to suppose that they were Mexicans. The pickets 
having been on guard all night without any fire, and it being very 
cold, had kindled large fires after daylight, and having tied their 
horses, were warming themselves, when the two scouts passed out 
between them without being hailed, the enemy no doubt taking 
them for Mexicans hunting stray horses. Pursuing their course 
about eight miles, McCulloch ascended a high hill to take a look 
at a place upon the road called Tanc le Vaca, about four miles dis- 
tant, where he expected to find another picket of the enemy, and 
true enough there they were. He remained at this place until 
about nine o'clock, a. m., watching both the movements of the picket 
and the main army, which now could be seen quite plainly with 
his glass, hoping that the picket of the enemy might be called in, 
and thus make his escape. But finding that they were not re- 
lieved, he avoided them by keeping around the foot of the moun- 
tains, and thus passed them unobserved, notwithstanding the 
narrowness of the pass. 

Once more beyond the reach of the enemy's pickets, and freed 
from their late dangerous position, they took a long breath, and 
galloped on with Hght hearts towards the camp at Agua Nueva. 



236 BATTLE OF BUENA VISTA. 

They arrived in sight on the afternoon of the 21st. Not a tent 
was seen standing, but a long column of dust was discovered upon 
the route to Buena Vista ; our army having been immediately 
ordered to fall back on the reception of the news brought by Lieut. 
Alston. Having come up to the camp, where a small force still 
remained, McCulloch found Gen. Taylor anxiously waiting for 
him, Avho, on receiving the farther particulars, and the information 
that Santa Anna was on the march, in full force, merely observed, 
*' Very well, Major, that's all I wanted to know. I am glad they 
did not catch you ;" and mounting his horse, rode off with his 
staff for Buena Vista. 

The 22d of February, once only sacred for the birth of Wash- 
ington, was this day hallowed by the commencement of the glo- 
rious battle of Buena Vista, in which fell the noble Clay, Hardin, 
Lincoln, McKee, Yell, and the gallant sons of Texas, Missis- 
sippi, Arkansas, Kentucky, lUinois, and Indiana. Again the 
tempest of war rose at its height ; the enemy's battalions were 
hurled down upon our lines, and our troops were "backward 
borne." Now rolled the tide of victory in favour of the Mexicans ; 
in turn their columns shook with the frightful havoc made by our 
artillery and musketry, which swayed their masses to and fro,— 
then swept them with the whirlwind's furious blast ; and the bat- 
tle-field again lay covered with the dying and the dead. The 
little army of Gen. Taylor seemed to have been left alone as an 
offering and a sacrifice to the cause of our country. Nearly five 
hundred miles in the interior, the regular troops withdrawn, with- 
out reinforcements, almost cut off from supplies, and surrounded 
by the enemy, it Avas left to meet with a sad fate, by encountering 
a force overwhelming in numbers. But it withstood the shock of 
the mighty host ; bending to the storm of death, yet rising again 
and braving its fury, until the gale of combat ceased, and left the 
Spartan band victors of the field. 

With the glorious victories of Monterey and Buena Vista still 
green in our memory, there comes a trumpet blast from the gal- 
lant and hardy sons of Missouri, proclaiming new laurels, won 
under the chivalrous Doniphan, at the battle of Sacramento, an- 
nouncing the capture of the city of Chihuahua. Again, echoing 
from Cahfornia, comes the triumph of Col. Kearny, announcing 
the battle of San Pascal. Farther yet, from the shores of the Pa- 
cific, is heard the roar of artillery, and our gallant tars under Com- 
modore Stockton, from the ships Cyane, Congress, Savannah, and 
Portsmouth, unite with our brave troops, and another victory is 
wrung from the foe at San Gabriel, which resulted in the recap- 
ture of Los Angelos, adding another glorious battle to be cele- 
brated with that of the memorable " eighth of January." Again 



CONCLUSION. 



237 



the foe is made to surrender at the bombardment of Vera Cruz ; 
and again the "Blue Jack" of the navy, under the brav^e and 
skilful Commodores Conner and Perry, is mingled with the stars 
and stripes of the army, under the heroic Scott, and both flags 
flaunt on the breeze, from the battlements of the castle of San Juan 
d'Ulloa. Here fell the gallant Vinton and the daring Shubrick, 
two of America's noblest sons. 

But our victories do not stop here. Advancing into the interior 
of the enemy's country, our troops are again met by the ill-starred 
Santa Anna, w4io had sworn to conquer, or die upon the battle- 
field. The valleys echo once again with " tumuhuous war," and 
Cerro Gordo adds another laurel to the brow of the victorious Scott. 
A Mason, a Cowarden, a Davis, were sacrificed ; while the blood 
of a Shields and a Sumner was spilled in the conflict with the 
enemy. Still onward advance our gallant troops, and from the 
heart of the enemy's country, from the walls of the city of Mexico, 
are proclaimed two more brilliant victories, the battles of Contreras 
and Churubusco. And while we rejoice over these triumphs of 
our arms, while our hearts bound with the glory of these achieve- 
ments, we are made to lament and deplore the loss of the brave 
and noble spirits who were immolated at their country's shrine. 
The names of Butler and Thornton will ever be held dear, as 
bright models of American chivalry. 

And even while we write, is proclaimed from the halls of the 
Montezumas, a still more terrible conflict, — a yet more desperate 
struggle, — and the national flag of the Union, waving triumphantly 
from the battlements of the proud capital of Mexico, announces 
its conquest, while the heart is chilled with suspense to learn the 
fate of the gallant braves who have achieved this last triumph of 
our arms. 

But it is foreign to our intent to record the history of these bat- 
tles ; our task was but to relate the wild exciting incidents of the 
Texian scouts, and having finished this labour, we must here take 
a kind farewell of our readers, leaving it for more able pens to 
record the later exploits of our gallant army. 




-I 



6. I 



col 



^1 



OPT 3 p^Pi'S^Crq ^ 

® Lh"^ = 5 ^ : 8 5 



Lieutentant-Colonels. 



Adjutants. 



Captains. 



1st liieutenants 



I 2d Lieutenants. 



I Sergeants. 



Corporals. 



I Privates. 



I Commissioned Officers. 



Non-commiss'd Officers, 
Musicians and Privates, 



I Agfgregate. 



Majors. 



I Captains 



I 1st Lieutenants. 



I 2d Lieutenants. 



-1 




^ 


1 Principal Musicians. 


SI 


^_, 


Ol *^ ►-• 


^ i Sergeants. 


ol 




OJ en to 


1 Corporals. 


-i 




_ 


1 Musicians. 


21 


Cl 


^ oI S^ t-- 


cr> 1 Privates. 



I Commissioned Officers. 



Non-commiss'd Officers, 
Musicians and Privates. 



I Aggregate. 



I Privat 



I Commissioned Officers. 



Non-commiss'd Officers, 
Musicians and Privates 



I Aggregate. 



I Commissioned Officers. 



k_. Non-commiss'd Officers 



I Musicians. 



Total. 



i ^ ^, I Aggregate. 



d o 



S o S 



to i-* 60 I Killed. 



I Wounded. 



DisabioU. 



& 



Q O^ 




S ?: 




2 




^^ 




^^ a. 




to-* 




^ ^ 




-"g. 




i,^ 












^■^• 




c^S 




l> 








^ S 


O 


n, ,^ 


M 


^ CO 


'^ 


15^ 


^ 


.|a 


^ 


s b 


U^^ 


Si: 








§ § 


s 


^^ 


<! 




M 


tc S^ 




to n. 


( •) 


i,2 


!2l 








to 




^-^ 




^? 








i^ 





^S* 






240 
LIST OF THE KILLED. WOUNDED. AND MISSING IN GEN. TWIGGS' DIVISION. 



No. 



Names. 



Rank. 



Regiment. Co. 



Remarks. 



KILLED. 
Wm. H. Watson 



N. Norris. • • 
P. Field.... 
N. Barbour. 
Hoskins. . . . 
C. Terrett.. 

S. Irvin 

Hazlett 

S. Woods. . . 



George Waitman. 

John Eagle 

Lovell Gregory. . 
Henry Snower. . . 

T. J. Babb 

W. Patrick 

J. Newman 

G. Torskay 

J. Young 

William Brown. . 
William Mickle. . 

J. Harper 

C. K.Brown 

J. Stubert 

Edgar Lavalette. . 



1 

2 

3 

4 

5 

6 

7 

8 

9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 

16 
17 
18 
19 
20 Edward Carey. 

21 Allen J. Vanceal. . . . 

22 Michael McGouth- . . 

23 John Weeks 
24 1 James S. Doble. . . 
25iPeter Andrews... 

26 {Peter Judge 

27 Jas. C. Pennington 



Edward Reilly ■ 

Benjamin Bradt- . . . . 
Thomas Salsbury. . 
Henry Conline 



Martin Enwul. .... 
Thos. W. Gibson... 

rhos. Perkins 

Lawson Stewart 

Joseph Wolf. 

George Beck 

Richard Bunchan. . • 

H.K.Brown 

J.Carroll 

Marcus French 

John Savage 

Mica Hatch 

William Raymond. . 
Francis Sheridan 



Lieut. Col. 

Captain 
do. 

Brevet Major 
1st Lt. & Adj. 
1st Lieutenant 
1st Lt. & Adj. 
2d Lieutenant 
Brev. 1st Lieut. 

1st Sergeant 
Private 

do. 

do. 
Sergeant 
Private 

do. 

do. 

do. 
Sergeant 
Private 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 
Corporal 
Private 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
Corporal 



Bait. Vol. 

3d Infantry 

do. 

do. 
4th Inf'ry 
1st Inf'ry 
3d Infantry 

do. 
2d Infantry 

3d Artil'ry 

do. 

do. 

do. 
3d Infantry 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 
4th Inf'ry 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 
Texas Vol. 

1st Inf'ry 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 



Comm'g Bat., killed 

on 20th. 
Killed on the 21st. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

Serv'g with 4th Inf., 

killed on 21st. 
Killed on the 23d. 

do. 21st. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

Wounded on 21st, 

died on 27th. 
Killed on the 21st. 

do. 22d. 

do. 21st. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

Capt. Shivers's Co., 

killed on 21st. 
Killed on the 21st. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

Wounded on 21st, 
I since dead. 



241 



List of the Killed^ Wounded, and Missing in Gen. Twiggs's division — continued. 



No 



Names. 



KILLED. 

JohnTrescart 

G. A. Herring 

Alexander Ramsay. 

Joseph Worry 

Patrick O'Brien. . .. 

WOUNDED. 

W.W.Lear 



H. Bainbridge. 



4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 
20 
21 
22 
23 
24 
25 
26 
27 
28 
29 
30 
31 
32 
33 
34 
35 
36 
7 



J. J. Abercrombie. . . 

J. H. Lemott 

R. H. Graham. . . 
R.Dilworth 

Philip Swartout. . • 
John Edwards. . . 



Rank. 



Wm. P. Holschea. . . 



John Lee 

Michael McCarthy. 
Theodore Fricker. . 

Bendt. Nelson 

Barthw. Stokes. . . . 

George Wolf 

S. D. Coal 

Thos. Heuson 

William Gilmore. . . 
John McCarthy.... 

M.Reilly 

W. R. Goed 

Austin Clark 

P. E. Holcomb 

Thos. Wajan 

G. Brownley 

Emit Hadduck 

P. Maloney , 

J. Hogan 

P. White 

C. Ichle , 

N. Farley 

C. Leslie 

D. Presbie 

J. D. Ritters 

W.H. McDonnell... 
Ischa B. Tucker. . .. 

M. Tyler 

Joseph Morris 

W. Mullen 

W. Rooke 

J. Freel 

D. Boyle 

T. Clair 

Wm. H. Bowden. . . . 



1st Sergeant 

Sergeant 

Private 

do. 

do. 

Major 

Captain 

Brevet Major 

Captain 

1st Lieutenant 

2d Lieutenant 

Sergeant 

Private 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

Corporal 

Private 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

Corporal 

Private 

do. 

Musician 

Sergeant 

Private 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

21 



Resriment. 



Bait. Bat. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 

3d Inf 'ry 

do. 

1st Inf 'ry 

do. 
4th Inf 'ry 
1st Inf 'ry 
3d Artil'ry 
2d Drag. 

3d Artil'ry 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 
2d Drag. 
3d Artil'ry 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 
3d Inf'ry 

do. 

do. 
-do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 



Co. 



do. 

do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
C 

do. 

do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
B 
E 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
A 
C 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
D 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
F 
do. 
H 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 

I 



Remarks. 



Killed on the 21st 
do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

Comd' rgt., wound- 
ed 21st severely. 
Wounded on 21st 
slightly. 

Do. do. 

Do. severely. 

Do. do. 

Do. died on 29th. 

Do. slightly. 

Attached to Co. D, 
3d Artillery. 

Wounded on 21st 
slightly. 

Do. 23d slightly. 

Do. 21st do. 

Do. do. 

Do. do. 

Do. 23d do. 

Do. 21st do. 

Do. severely. 

Do. do. 

Do. do. 

Do. do. 

Do. do. 

Do. 23d slightly. 

Do. mortally. 

Do. slightly. 

Do. 21st severely. 

Do. do. 

Do. slightly. 

Do. do. 

Do. do. 

Do. do. 

Do. severely. 

Do. do. 

Do. do. 

Do. do. 

Do. do. 

Do. slightly. 

Do. 23d severely. 

Do. 21st do. 

Do. do. 

Do. do. 

Do. do. 

Do. do. 

Do. slightly. 

Do. So. 

Do. severely. 



242 



List of the Killed, Wounded, and Missing in Gen, Tiinggs^s division — continued. 



No, 



Names. 



Rank. 



WOUNDED. 

J. Mansfield... 



C. Adams 

Edward Astin 

James Calhoun 

J. Kerns 

M. Keegan 

L. Sours 

David Pottsdaner 

G. E. Radwell 

Thos. O'Brien 

Geo. W. Anderson. . 

Robert Sanders 

Thos. Mannigan. . . . 

Jas. Ryan 

Thos. Hyam 

James Wyley 

Danl. McDonald 

Wm. Albison 

Matw. McCormick.. 

Wm. Taylor 

E. Henderson 

Wm. Holborn 

Wm. Petty 

Wm. Johnson 

John Hill 

E. Barnum 

Robt. Halden 

Wm. A. Jones 

James Myers 

Aaron Wriggle 

Andrew Smith 

William C. Jones... 

John Maguire 

John McDufiy 

John Banks 

Patk. Myles 

E. Bessie 

T. H. Haller 

Johnl'igart 

E. Garver 

Denton Conner 

Robt. Aikens 

Augustus Lapplc. . . . 

C. Smith 

Wm. McCarty 

Patrick Neely 

John Saunders 

Wm. Norlin 

Robt.E. Wooley 

James Crawley 

H. Duckart 

Francis Faulkler. • . . 
A.Ryan 



Private 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 
Sergeant 

do. 

do. 

do. 
Corporal 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 
Private 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 
1st Sergeant 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 
Corporal 

do. 

do. 
Musician 
Private 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 



Regiment. 


Co. 




Remarks. 


3d Inf 'ry 


I 


Wounded on 21st 








severely. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


Lo. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


i 0. 


do. 


do. 


K 


Lo. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


\ 0. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


do. 


4th Inf ry 


A 


Do. 


slightly 


do. 


B 


Do. 


dangerously. 


do. 


E 


Do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


severely. 


do. 


A 


Do. 


do. 


do. 


B 


Do. 


dangerously. 


do. 


C 


Do. 


slightly. 


do. 


D 


Do. 


severely. 


do. 


E 


Do. 


do. 


. do. 


A 


Do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


slightly. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


severely. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


dangerously. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


slighlly. 


do. 


C 


Do. 


sevcrel\\ 


do. 


D 


Do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


slightly, 
severely, 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


mortally. 


do. 


E 


Do. 


dangerously. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


severely. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


dangerouslv. 


1st Int'ry 


K 


Do. 


sliglitly. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


very severely. 


do. 


E 


Do. 


slightly. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


do. 


do. 


C 


Do. 


severely. 


do. 


G 


Do. 


do. 


do. 


C 


Do. 


vcrv severely. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


do. 


do. 


K 


Do. 


slightly. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


severely. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


slightly. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


do. 


do. 


E 


Do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


severely. 


do. 


G 


Do. 


slightly. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


do. , 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


severely. 


do. 


do. 


Do. 


slightly. , 



243 



List of the Killed, Wounded, and Missing in Gen, Twiggs's division — continued. 



No. 



92 

93 
94 
95 

97 
98 
99 
100 
101 
102 
103 
104 
105 
106 
107 
108 
109 
110 
111 
112 
1131 
IM 
115 
IIG 



Names. 



WUUA'DED. 

John Wilson Private 



Rank. 



Jacob Smidt , 

Chas. Ratciiff'e 

James Delaney 

H. Shrieder 

John Gallagher 

Levi Smith 

Peter McCabe 

W. P. Poulson 

Robt. Caplcs 

James Piles 

Albert Hart 

William Lee 

Jacob Hemming 

Geo. Aunuld 

Chas. Peck 

Andw. J. Norris 

Geo. Allen 

Jas. Henry 

Harry Elting 

Wm. Kelly 

H. Gilford 

Mclvin J. Stone 

E. W. Stevenson. . . . 
Wm. P. Alexander. . 



MISSING. 

1 E. Gormley. . . 
2, Geo. O'Brien. 



do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 
1st Sergeant 
Private 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

Private 
do. 



Rc'-'-iment. 



1st Lif'ry 

do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
Bah. Bat. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 

3d Infantry 
do. 



Remarks. 



Wounded on 21st 

slightly. 
Do. severely. 
Do. slightly. 
Do. severely. 
Do. do. 
Do. do. 
Do. do. 
Do. do. 
Do. slightly. 
Do. very dang'sly. 
Do. very severely. 
Do. do. 
Do. do. 
Do. slightly. 
Do. very severely. 
Do. shghtly. 
Do. do. 
Do. do. 
Do. do. 
Do. do. 
Do. severely. 
Do. slightly. 
Do. do. 
Do. do. 
Do. severely. 

r Known to have 
< been wounded &; 
( presumed dead. 



GEN. BUTLER'S DIVISION —OPHO REGIMENT. 



KILLED. 

Mathew Hett 

W. G. Davis 

D.F.Smith , 

O. B. Coxe , 

Elijah Reese 

Thomas McMurray. 

W. H. Harris 

Richard Welch.... 
James McCockey. . 

George Phale 

William Weber. . . . 

John Havolett 

T. D. Egan 

Stephen Freeman. . 
Oscar Behnce 

WOUNDED. 

W. O. Butler 



A. M. Mitchell 

A. W. Armstrong. . . 
Lewis Morter 



1st Lieutenant 
1st Sergeant 
Private 

do. 

do. 

do. 
Corporal 
Private 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

Major General 

Colonel 
liieut. & Adj. 
1st Lieutenant 



B 

do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
IRi. 



A Do 
C Do 
do. Do, 
do. Do, 
D !Do, 
E Do. 
2Ri. Do. 
do. 



Killed on the 21st. 
Do. do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 



Do. 
Do. 
Do. 
Do. 
Do. 



Wounded on 21st 

severely. 
Do. do. 
Do. do. 
Do. slightly. 



iK 244 

Zist of the Killed, Wounded, and Missing in Gen. Butler* s division — continued. 



No, 



Names. 



WOUNDED. 

N.H. Niles ^ 

H. McCarty 

James George ■ 

Samuel Myers 

Josiah A. Kellam. . . 

Edward Wade 

William Maloney. . . 

John Farrell 

John Clarken 

William Work 

Thos. Vande Venter. 
John Flannigan. . . . . 
Jeremiah Ryan..... 
Michael Gilligan. . . 

Tobias Went 

Charles Segar 

Griffin Lowerd 

Alfred Doneghue. . . . 
Joseph Lombeck. . • ■ 

Silas Burrill 

William Miller 

G. W. Fitzhugh 

Robert Doney 

Adam F. Shane 

John Fletcher 

A. B. McKee 

George Myer 

E. J. Spoole 

Henry Weber 

Henry Myer 

George Webster. . . . 
George Longfellow.. 
John F. Longley. . . . 

John Pearson 

R. H. Alcott... 

Henry Humphries. . . 



Rank. 


Co. 


1st Lieutenant 




2d Lieutenant 




Captain 




Private 


1st Rifle 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


1st Sergeant 


A 


Private 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


G 


do. 


do. 


do. 


D 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


Sergeant 


E 


Corporal 


do. 


Private 


do. 


do. 


G 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


Corporal 


H 


Private 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


Sergeant 


2d Rifle 


do. 


do. 


Corporal 


do. 


Private 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 



Remarks. 



Wounded 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 



on 21st severely, 
slightly. 

do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
died since, 
slightly. 
do. 



TENNESSEE REGIMENT. 



KILLED. 

W. B. Allen 

S. M.Putman 

John B. Porter 

William H. Robinson 

.John A. Hill 

B. F. Coffee 

E.W.Thomas 

Booker H. Dolton. .. 
Isaac Gurman Elliot 

Peter H. Martin 

Edward Pry or 

Benjamin Soaper. . . . 

Henry Collins 

James H. Allison. . . . 
Jas. H. Johnston. . . . 







Killed on the 21st 


Captain 




do. 


2d Lieutenant 




do. 


Private 


C 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


Sergeant 


D 


do. 


Private 


do. 


do. 


do. 


E 


do. 


do. 


F 


do. 


do. 


G 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


H 


do. 


do. 


I 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 



245 



List of the Killed, WouJided, and Missing in Gen. Butler'' s division — continued. 
TENNESSEE REGIMENT— Continued. 



No 



Names. 



KILLED. 

•Tas. B. Turner 

R. D. Willis 

Joseph B. Burkitt. . . 
Jas M. L. Campbell. 

A. J. Eaton 

A. J. Gil)son 

Finlay Glover 

A. J. Pratt 

William Rhodes 

John W. Sanders. . . . 
G. W. Wilson 

WOUNDED. 

R.B. Alexander 

J. L. Scudder 

G. H. Nixon 

J. C. Allen 

F. F. Winston 

J. L. Bryant 

Alexander Bigam... 

D. G. Fleming 

Mackey Roney 

Samuel Davis 

James Thompson... 

David Collins 

A. S. Duval 

T.B.Powell 

Wm. B. Davis 

Joseph Law. 

James York 

William Young 

Richard Gilford 

A. V. Stantield 

Asa Lamb 

J. J. Argo 

James I'odd 

Thomas Vickens. . . • 

W. D. Cabler 

James M. Vance. . . . 
George W. Gilbert . . 

Chas. M. Talley 

Michael Crantze. . . . 

R. C. Locke 

J. F.Raphile 

Thomas Kelly 
Albert Tomlinson. . . 

Julius C. Elliott 

R.A.Cole 

Jas. H. Jenkins 

A.G.Stewart 

Gulinger Holt 

James Patterson. . . . 



36 Charley Arnold. 



Private 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do.- 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 

Major 

1st Lieutenant 

do. 
2d Lieutenant 
Corporal 
Private 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 
Corporal 
Private 

do. 

do. 
1st Sergeant 
Sergeant 
Private 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 
Corporal 
Private 

do. 

do. 
Sergeant 
Corporal 
Private 

21* 



I 

do. 
K 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 



B 

do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 

c 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

D 

do. 

do. 

E 

F 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

c 

G 

do. 
do. 
H 
do. 
do. 



Remarks. 



Killed on the 21st. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 



Wounded 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do, 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do, 
do. 
do. 
do. 



on 21st severely. 

do. 
slightly, 
severely, 
slightly, 
severely. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 
severely, 
slightly. 

do. 

do, 

do. 
mortally. 

do. 
slightly. 

do. 

do. 

do. 
severely. 

do. 
since dead, 
severely, 
slightly. 

do. 
severely. 

do. 
since dead, 
severely. 

do. 

do. 
slightly, 
severely. 

do. 

do. 
slightly, 

do. 



246 

List of the Killed, Wounded, and Missing in Gen. Butler's division — continued. 
TENNESSEE REGIMENT— Continued. 



No. 



37 

38 

39 

40 

41 

42 

43 

44 

45 

46 

47 

48 

49 

50 

51 

52 

53 

54 

55 

56 

57 

58 

59 

60 

61 

62 

63 

64 

65 B 

66 

67 

68 

69 

70 

71 

72 

73 

74 

75 

1 



Names. 



AVOUNDED. 

J. J.Blackwell 

Joseph Crutchfield. . 

J. Freeman 

J. D. Gilmer 

P.O.Hale 

Daniel C. King 

C.B.Maguire 

S. S. Reaves 

A. W. Reaves 

Augustin Stevens... 
Thomas N.Smith... 

C.B.Ward 

Charles Davis 

Robt. W. Green 

Eli Brown 

W. F. Bowen 

Peter Eugles 

Robert Flannigan. . . 
William Lowery. . . . 
S. N. Macey 

E. G. Zachary 

W. M. Alferd 

John H. Kay 

A. S. Alexander 

M. C. Abinathy 

Jesse Brashars 

J. M. Bailey 

Campbell G. Boyd. . 

L. Commons 

J.W.Curtis 

H. H. Dadson 

John Gavin 

Aaron Parks 

F. Richardson 

A. O. Richardson... 
Thomas C. Ramsay. 

John Vining 

M. D. Watson 

Thomas Thompson. . 

MISSING. 

Felix Wordzincki. . . 



I 
21 R. R. Morehead. 



Rank. 



Private 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

1st Sergeant 
Corporal 
Private 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 
Corporal 

do. 
Private 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

Private 
do. 



Co. 



H 

do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
I 

do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
K 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
F 

F 

I 



Remarks. 



Wounded 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 



on 21st slightly. 

do. 
severely. 

do. 
slightly, 
severely. 

do. 

do. 
slightly. 

do". 

do. 
severely. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 
slightly. 

do. 
severely. 

do. 

do. 

do. 
slightly, 
severely. 

do. 

do. 
slightly, 
severely. 

do. 
slightly. 

do. 
severely. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 
on 23d. 



Missing on the 21st, re- 
turned unhurt to camp. 

Certainly killed in the ac- 
tion of the 21st. 



MISSISSIPPI REGIMENT. 



KILLEn. 

L. M. Troeur 

Silas Mitcham 

Samuel Potts 

Joseph H. Tenelle. . . 
William H. Grisam. . 



Private 


C 


Killed on the 21st 


do. 


E 


do. 


do. 


G 


do. 


Private 


II 


do. 


Corporal 


I 


do. 



247 

List of the. Killedy Wounded, and Missing in Gen. Butlerh division — continued. 
MISSISSIPPI REGIMENT— Continued. 



No. 



Names. 



KILLED. 

6 Joseph Heaton 

7 Joseph Downing. . . 

8 Daaif I D. Dubois. . . 
John M. Tyree .... 

V.'OUNDED. 

1 Alex X. Mc Clung.. 

2 R. N. Downing. ... 

3 Henry T. Cook 

''Ruf.r K. Arthur... 

'■ ^ ! ' [oward 

.t^iiiv a. Miller 

2j J. H. Jackson 

3 A. Lainhart ■ 

4 J. L. \aderson 

5mj. iJ Jones 



6 
7 
8 
9 
.10 
II 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 
20 
21 
22 
23 
24 
25 
26 
27 
28 
29 
30 
31 
32 
33 
34 
35 
36 
37 
38 
39 
40 
41 
42 



Johi; D. Markham... 
H. B. Thompson. . . . 
E-. W. li'oUingsworth. 
Dr. G. W. Ramsay.. 

Alphius Cobb 

George Wills 

W. Huffman 

0. W tones 

William Orr 

D. Love 

-Toseph H. Langford. 

A. P. Barnham 

H. W. Pierce 

William Shadt 

W. H. Fleming 

Jacob Frederick 

John Coleman 

Wm. P. Spencer. . . • 

M.M.Smith 

James Kilvey 

J. Williamson 

A. W. Taig 

Warren White 

Robert Bowen 

Frederick Mathews. 

Benj. F. Roberts 

Avery Noland 

Francis A. Wolf. • . . 

C. F. Cotton 

Geo. Williams 

Nat. Massie 

William H. Bell. . . . 

E. B. Lewis 

D. B. Lewis 

Charles Martin 

las. L. Thompson. . . 
John Stewart 



Rank. 


Co. 


Private 


I 


do. 


do. 


do. 


H 


do. 


K 


Lieut. Colonel 




Captain 




1st Lieutenant 




2d Lieutenant 




do. 




Private 


B 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


Corporal 


C 


Private 


do. 


Sergeant 


D 


Private 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


Sergeant 


E 


Private 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


G 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


Sergeant 


I 


Private 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


Sergeant 


K 


Private 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 



Remarks. 



Killed on the 21st. 
do. 

do. 22d. 
do. 23d. 

Wounded on 21st dang'sly. 

do. severely, 

do. slightly. 

do. do. 
do.22d,23d,seve'ly. 
do. 21st,dang'ly. 

do. do. 

do. severely. 

do. slightly, 

do. do. 

do. severely. 

do. shghtly. 

do. do. 

do. mortally, 

do. dang'sly. 

do. severely, 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. slightly, 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. mortally, 

do. dang'sly. 

do. do. 

do. severely, 

do. slightly, 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. dang'sly. 

do. do. 

do. severely. 

do. do. 

do. mortally, 

do. slightly. 

do. do. 

do. dang'sly. 

do. severely, 

do. do. 

do. slightly, 

do. dang'sly. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. do. 

do. slightly, 

do. do. 



248 



List of the Killed, Wounded, and Missing in Gen. Butler's division—co^iiinne^, 
MISSISSIPPI REGIMENT— CoxTiNUED. 



No. 


Names. 


Kank. 


Co. 


Rema, vcs. 


43 
44 
45 
4G 
47 


W.OUiVDED. 

John McNorris 

R. W. Chance 

P.W.Johnson 

Robert Grigg. 

Piatt Snedicor 


Private 
do. 
do. 
do. 
do. 


K' 

B 

C 

H 

K 


Wounded on 21 sr. slightly. 
do.22d,23d,n)ort'ly. 
do. poverely. 
do. nlightly. 
do. mortally. 



WOUXDED. 




I'Valentine Dcutche- . 


Private 


2 Lewis Young 


do. 


3 Joseph Bartlett 


do. 


4 Philip Smith 


do. 


5, Thomas Alendcr. . . . 


do. 



Wounded on t'.io 21st. 
do. do. 

do. 22d. 

do. do. 

do. do. 



GEN. WORTH'S DIVISION. 



Names 



KILLED. 

H. McKavett.; 

W. Rihl 

Charles Hamm 

J. F.- Wagner 

Irwing 

Miller 

P. Ficldcson 

S. G. Aileng 

John Francis 

■VVOrXDED. 

N. B.Rossell 



Brand 

McManuo . , . 

Grubb 

Schrivei^man. 

Bell....: 

Ingalls 



Grelan 

McGuirk 

Hendricks 

R. C. Gatlin 

J. H. Potter 

R, S. Cross ■ 

S.P.Oakley 

M. Fleming 

C. Gusbenberger. • 

James Myers 

A. Rennebeck. . . . . 
N. White.... 




Remtiiks 



At the sto ruling of the 
Bishop's Palace and the 
heights overlooking''. it. 



In the arm and side by a 
musket ball. 



Leg shot olT— died same 
day. 



Died in hospital, Sept. 27. 



249 



List of the Killed, Wounded, and Missing in Gen. Worth^s division — continued. 



Names. 



Rank. 



Regim't, 


Co. 


1st Art. 


K 


4th Art. 


H 


La. Vol. 


Phoenix 


do. 


do. 


do. ■ 


do. 


do. 


do. 


2d Art. 


A 


4th Art. 


H 


do. 


do. 


do. 


G 


do. 


do. 


3d Art. 


A 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


do. 


4th Art. 


I 


do. 


do. 


2d Art. 


K 


8th Inft. 


A 


do. 


B 


do. 


D 


do. 


do. 


do. 


E 


do. 


H 


do. 


do. 



Remarks. 



WOUNDED. 

Morron 

James Harvey. 



Louis Kirk 

J. W. Miller 

W. Burton 

M. Morton 

Basse 

Michael Noonan. . . . 

Joseph Grey 

Stephen Edwards... 
Theopolis Bowis. . . • 

James Lynch 

Mark Collins 

Denis Kelly 

Amos Collins 

John Reinecke 

Isaac Dyer 

Boyd 

Ragan 

Paul Bunzey 

Geo. Wainwright. . . 

Rock 

Wills 

Marshall 

R. Riley 

Lawrence Tacey. . . • 
Jas. McKnight 



Corporal 
Private 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 

do. 
Artificer 
Private 
2d Lieut. 
Sergeant 

do. 

do. 
Private 

do. 

do. 



Died in hospital, Oct. 7. 
Attached to K Co., 1st 
Artil'ry-— died Sept. 28. 



Badly wounded. 



Died on the 30th Sept. 



Died October 9. 



RECAPITULATION. 

Killed 9 

Mortally wounded 6 

Wounded 40 

Total killed and wounded in Gen. Worth's division 55 



250 
COL. HAYS'S REGilVlENT. 

ATTACHED TO 2d DIVISION IN THE TAKING OF MONTEREY. 

List of the Killed and Wounded in the several companies of the 1st Regiment of 
Texas Blounled Rijlemen, commanded by Col. John C. Hays, in the recent 
operations in and about Monterey. 

Company A, Capt. Ben McCuUoch's. . .Herman S. Thomas, killed on the 22d 

of September. 

do. do. do. Armstrong, badly womided. 

do. do. do. Fielding Alston, do. do. 

do. do. do. Jno. P. Waters, do. do. 

do. do. do. C. E. De Witt, do. do. 

do. do. . do. Oliver Jenkins, slightly wounded. 

do. do. do. J. F. Minter, do. do. 

do. do. do. Thomas Law, do. do. 

Company B, Capt. C. B. Acklen's None killed or wounded. 

Company C, Capt. Tom Green's None killed. 

do. do. do. John Rabb, slightly wounded. 

Company D, Capt. Ballowe's Lieut. Wm. E. Reese, slightly wound- 
ed on the 22d. 

do. do. do. Daniel McCarty, killed. 

Company E, Capt. C. C. Herbert's J. W. D. Austin, killed on the 2.1st. 

do. do. do. Jesse Perkins, slightly wounded. 

Company F, Capt. Early's None killed. 

do. do. N. P. Browning, slightly wounded. 

Company G, Capt. James Gillespie's. • .Sergt. Roundtree, slightly womided. 
Company H, Capt. J. B. McCown's. • . .Corp. J. B. Walker, slightly wounded. 

do. do. do. Wm. Carley, badly wounded. 

do. do. do. J. Buchanan, H. P. Lyon, and C. W. 

Tufts, were left behind on special 
duty, and are supposed to be killed. 
None killed in action. 
Company I, Capt. R. A. Gillespie's Capt. R. A. Gillespie, killed in storm- 
ing the second height. 

do. do. do. Gilbert Brush, slightly wounded. 

Company K, Capt. Eli Chandler's Corp. John M. FuUerton, killed. 

do. do. do. Sergt. J. B. Barry, shghtly wounded. 

do. do. do. B. F. Keys, do. do. 



COL. WOODS'S REGIMENT OF TEXAS RANGERS. 

OPEKATING IN THE EASTERN PART OF THE CITY ON THE 23d. 

Killed — George Short and Thomas Gregory 2 

Wounded— Baker Barton, Chas. G. Davenport, Ira Grigsby, and C. Reese.. 4 



Total killed and wounded. 



251 
RECAPITULATION. 





KILLED. 


WOUNDED. 


DIVISIONS. 


to 

i 

o 

o 


i 

i 


J- 

c 
o 

i 

o 

o 


1 

> 
i 


Pi 

S 


1 

i 

n 


t- 
> 

1 

O 


4) 

1 

> 


Gen. Twiggs's. 

9ri TJpfrimpnt Tlrn crnnns:. 




14 
11 

4 






2 
2 


■ 

9 

27 

31 

23 
9 

7 






2 

1 

5 
2 








^H Tnfantrv 








3d Artillery 
















1 


5 

1 

6 




17 


Capt Shiver's Coinpanv of Te\iis Volunteers 












Total 


10 


47 
8 


1 


4 

1 

2 

1 


106 

12 
9 
6 
6 


— 


17 






Gen. Woktii's. 

Artillprv 














1 


•• 


o 






1 






4 








1 
'l 


1 

9 








17 


Total 


1 


1] 


4 


33 


1 


21 






Gen. Butler's. 


















5 








] 


15 

~7 

q 


•• 




6 

4 
5 


30 


T^pnnpci'jpp T? pcriinpnt ...... . 






75 








47 


Col Wood's 1'c\as Rancors • « 


— 


~" 


3 
5 


2 
53 

68 






4 


Total 


8 


189 


16 
16 


163 


Grand Total 


11 


58 


''Ol 








506 







THE END. 



6*/ 



